Celtic reject Ibrox tickets but Rangers to use SPFL rules for Christmas derby
Celtic have turned down Rangers’offer of 700 away tickets for the first Premiership derby of the season on Sunday, September 3 at Ibrox.
Despite talks between highprofile figures at both Glasgow clubs, Celtic have decided not to take up the allocation, with those remaining briefs being allocated to home fans. The Scotsman understands that Rangers were prepared to bring in extra stewarding and enhanced security measures after incidents that took place during previous clashes between the two clubs but despite this, there will be no away fans for the fixture.
The final two derbies of last season were played in front of home supporters only following the match at Ibrox on January 2, where away fans were hit by objects. This led to travelling supports being axed due to “safety and security concerns”, with incidents having occurred at both stadia, and despite an apparent desire to find a solution from both parties, the first derby of the campaign will be played in front of Rangers fans only.
It is believed that Celtic would rather a larger allocation than 700 was given to away fans, but would want that to be reciprocated.
Despite Celtic’s decision, Rangers are still anticipating being permitted away fans for when they cross the city on Saturday, December 30 for the first league derby at Celtic Park.
They are expected to refer to the SPFL rules, citing rule I27 if they are unable to have the request granted by Celtic.
The ruling in the Rules of The Scottish Professional Football League reads: “The Home club must make provision for the admission of such reasonable number of visiting supporters at every home League Match and Play-off Match as may be agreed in advance with the Visiting Club and, in the event of their being unable to agree such number not later than 14 days prior to the date of the League Match or Play-off Match in question, the number of visiting supporters allowed shall be determined by the Board whose decision shall be final and binding.”