Robertson calls for a rethink as Challenge becomes a problem
JOHN ROBERTSON is calling for a revamp of a Challenge Cup format riddled with financial risks for vulnerable Scottish clubs.
The Inverness Caley Thistle manager, in this his third season back in the Highlands, insists he has treated Scotland’s third cup competition with the utmost respect.
He guided his team to the trophy in season 2017/18 and stands potentially 90 minutes away from the club’s fourth final in all today.
But the reality for clubs like Inverness, battling to stem a tide of financial losses, is that the competition’s draw throws up a variety of pitfalls and perils.
Drawing a team from Wales, England or one north or south of the Irish border would present a hefty financial hit to a club like Caley Thistle — something they have so far avoided.
But Robertson revealed even the visit of a Rangers young team for today’s semi-final, right in their own backyard, would hit club coffers.
The former Hearts striker said: ‘We will likely lose money this weekend due to stewarding and the fact police are treating this as a game against Rangers, rather than looking at it as a game against Rangers’ Colts.
‘Our police and security bill will be rather substantial, so I can’t see the club making any money out of it at all.
‘We’ll lose money — and that’s just the way it is.
‘At some stage — while it’s a competition we like and take seriously — we will maybe have to look at how we revamp it.’
Robertson also questioned the validity of allowing the entry of teams from other home nations, given the apparent lack of regard some have shown to the competition.
While he is excited by the challenge in footballing sense, Robertson stressed: ‘It is a difficult competition now. You’ve got the cross-border teams and this year I’m not so sure they’ve taken the cup seriously.
‘Wrexham sent up their youth team or reserves to play at Ibrox in the last round. Ballymena sent their youth team out to play Hearts. The cross-border idea, for me, has probably run its course.
‘I think we have to look at revamping the tournament.’