League Cup semi finals

[huggie1875]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45671736

[Northernhibee]

Completely pointless.

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

Absolute effing madness

[Chorley Hibee]

Incompetence beyond belief.

[Diclonius]

wow

[howdenthehibby]

Logistical nightmare . Bonkers , all to suit the Bigot Brothers obviously, as they were offered Murrayfield.

[we are hibs]

Get the CCTV around Hampden and the southside on PPV. Fights all over the shop

[The Green Goblin]

What could possibly go wrong?

[Hermit Crab]

Ready made excuse for Hearts or Celtic. The pitch will be cut up.

[Zazu62]

Aberdeen fans trying to get there for 12 on a Sunday aswell

[Famous Fiver]

Recipe for disaster.

Wonder how long it will take Police Scotland to trawl through all the video footage after this scenario has unfolded?

[IGRIGI]

Great I love a good Fight Night.


"IT'S....TIIIIIIIIIME"

[blaikie]

This could be fun especially if the Huns lose to Aberdeen!!

[CraigHibee]

beggars belief

[we are hibs]

This could be fun especially if the Huns lose to Aberdeen!!

On penalties.. Exuberant scenes all over the place.

[SChibs]

Ready made excuse for Hearts or Celtic. The pitch will be cut up.

Won't that suit hearts?

[SChibs]

Aberdeen fans trying to get there for 12 on a Sunday aswell

Doncaster has the cheek to say it suits all parties. Confirms fans aren't thought of at all in the planning process

[Bishop Hibee]

Hertz and Celtc fans will be raging which is certainly great for a wind-up. Being more rational about it, it’s a bit crazy. I’m sure nothing can go wrong with Huns and sheep fans heading into Glasgow city centre post-match meeting yams and Celtc fans drinking in the city centre pre-match.

[SChibs]

Hertz and Celtc fans will be raging which is certainly great for a wind-up. Being more rational about it, it’s a bit crazy. I’m sure nothing can go wrong with Huns and sheep fans heading into Glasgow city centre post-match meeting yams and Celtc fans drinking in the city centre pre-match.

Central and queen st will be interesting

[Kojock]

Central and queen st will be interesting

As will the Irish ferry’s.

[The_Horde]

Much prefer elder scrolls.

[SeanWilson]

ET and pens would be perfect, given we've got them on Tuesday night!

[Sir David Gray]

I can see a few police officers taking a sickie that day.

[Keith_M]

Im definitely leaving town that weekend

:-O

[Hermit Crab]

ET and pens would be perfect, given we've got them on Tuesday night!


Wednesday night mate 31/10/18

[Diclonius]

I'm just going to sit tight in my Larbert stronghold and hope none of the carnage manages to make it over here.

Imagine if we HAD won on Tuesday. Rangers v Hibs followed by Celtic v Hearts. Riot.

[Hibs Class]

Might even be a new level of incompetence. Beyond ridiculous, no good reason for it whatsoever.

[Albanian Hibs]

Imagine the state of them by 7.45pm

[SirDavidsNapper]

Scottish football really is a joke

[easty]

Ready made excuse for Hearts or Celtic. The pitch will be cut up.

The grass will have had an extra few hours to grow. Hope Rodgers isn’t too upset.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

Don't see the problem tbh, neither game will sell out anyway.

[Famous Fiver]

400,000 Hearts fans in Glasgow on a Sunday night?

It will be a miracle unsurpassed in the history of World football.

[Dancehibs]

Don't see the problem tbh, neither game will sell out anyway.

They will l suspect. After our poor sales for league cup semi
Last season. Tickets will be sold in a way Celtic And Sevco will get more tickets. Plus Sevco fans will be mad for it. Be lucky if 10k dons

[oneone73]

So Aberdeen fans can't get a train there cos it's too early on a Sunday, and Hertz fans can't get a train back cos it's too late. Only in Scotland.

[hfc rd]

What an idiotic decision.

[cleanyman]

Aberdeen will bring 10 k

Hearts will bring their usual 8 or 9 k...maybe since its been a while though they might stretch to 10

Any other predictions ?

[Juniper Greens]

Aberdeen will bring 10 k

Hearts will bring their usual 8 or 9 k...maybe since its been a while though they might stretch to 10

Any other predictions ?

Hearts will sell out. Judging by the recent social media videos, a lot of them will just get into their seats for 12 and spend the whole day at the ground

[johnbc70]

Hope they have a load of spare seats available to replace sharpish after the first game, especially if the Huns lose.

[johnbc70]

Hearts will sell out. Judging by the recent social media videos, a lot of them will just get into their seats for 12 and spend the whole day at the ground

Half and half scarves?

[BH Hibs]

Sunday night 7:45 is a joke on its own but after a 12pm match with four sets of fans all in the same area is utter madness all because the games have to be played at Hampden in Glasgow. Let chaos reign.

[Geo_1875]

I can see a few police officers taking a sickie that day.

Only the ones with tickets for the The Rangers game.

[Frazerbob]

It’s going to be bonkers. Gutted we’re not involved.

[Real Emerald]

It was such a difficult decision to choose Hampden over Murrayfield as the national stadium though. Aye right, they are a bunch of weegie establishment *******s who care about nothing else than the bigot brothers. There’s been a few gems over the years but this decision beggars belief.

[Libby Hibby]

Does nobody else find all this quite amusing? What else were the SPFL to do?

[pollution]

So Aberdeen fans can't get a train there cos it's too early on a Sunday, and Hertz fans can't get a train back cos it's too late. Only in Scotland.


Last train back is 11.30pm

[kaimendhibs]

[emoji1785][emoji1785][emoji1785][emoji1785][emoji23][emoji23]

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[heretoday]

Nae wonder they laugh at us.

[jst1875]

Does nobody else find all this quite amusing? What else were the SPFL to do?

if they had got the hot and cold balls done properly, it would been Hertz v dons on the sat and the ugly twins on sun :-)

[SeanWilson]

Wednesday night mate 31/10/18

😳 Had it in my head Tuesday... Lol some rejigging to be done for me 🤣

[Billy Whizz]

What’s the problem with the day and time. Many games are played at 7.45pm.

[where'stheslope]

Last train back is 11.30pm

Hope Mount Florida is running extra trains on a Sunday night, because if extra time and penalties could easy be 10:15 - 10:30 finish.

Not bothered as were not there, but the reputation of Scottish Football could hit an all time low with this!!!!

[cabbageandribs1875]

gonna be a great day out for yamboids, they can go watch their real true loves in the first game, come out for a few shandies then back in to watch their kid-on true loves :aok:





p.s. couldn't give a flying one about aberdeen fans struggling to get down, always had a soft spot for them but no longer after their disgusting sectarianism towards Neil Lennon the other night :bitchy: if that's how they want to act then **** the northern huns

[H18S NX]

Quelle suprise,looking after the glasgow clubs,disgrace.

[eastterrace]

Last train back is 11.30pm

Would nae fancy being a normal punter on that train jeez .


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[cleanyman]

Hearts will sell out. Judging by the recent social media videos, a lot of them will just get into their seats for 12 and spend the whole day at the ground

Hearts won't sell out

They never have for the league cup

Did they even sell out ER a few years go?

[Billy Whizz]

Hearts won't sell out

They never have for the league cup

Did they even sell out ER a few years go?

The day trippers won’t fancy this one, they’ll be lucky to take 12,000

[Diclonius]

Quelle suprise,looking after the glasgow clubs,disgrace.

If they were looking after the Glasgow clubs they'd have been drawn together.

[jacomo]

Last train back is 11.30pm


Has it got 10k seats?

[Fife-Hibee]

Going to be absolute chaos. :greengrin

Shame. The 4 sets of fans I really wouldn't wish this on.... :cb

[Hermit Crab]

They will have special trains on stand by should they be required.

[Eyrie]

The only sensible decision that needed to be made was whether it was easier for Aberdeen fans to get to Hampden or Murrayfield using public transport.

In Scottish football, the only decisions to be made are to check what suits the blazers and Ugly Sisters. Sensible is banned.

[Fife-Hibee]

They will have special trains on stand by should they be required.

https://3.imimg.com/data3/BU/IL/MY-12536416/train-ambulance-500x500.jpg

[johnbc70]

Is the rumour true that Rangers and Hearts have agreed some kind of deal of buying one seat for the day to support both clubs?

[Hibernia&Alba]

C a r n a g e

[poolman]

Absolute effing madness


Four sets of fans descending on Weegieland on a Sunday

It will be chaos methinks

Thank goodness I'm not working in a city centre bar that day

[SirDavidsNapper]

Farce. Imagine the carnige later on if Aberdeen win.

[truehibernian]

The only sensible decision that needed to be made was whether it was easier for Aberdeen fans to get to Hampden or Murrayfield using public transport.

In Scottish football, the only decisions to be made are to check what suits the blazers and Ugly Sisters. Sensible is banned.

Sensible decision would have been to have one semi at Tannadice and the other at Easter Road - full stadia, no transport or policing issues, television money guaranteed anyway, makes 'getting to Hampden' an actual incentive..........fans are considered, neutrality guaranteed, scramble for tickets but hey-ho that's football.

Would never catch on with the absolute nutters in charge of football in Scotland the the idiots at the helm of Police Scotland - this decision today has carnage written all over it and I hope the police come out beforehand and justify why on earth they have agreed to it. Whoever decided this would be a good decision from a police point of view needs to be identified and asked why they think this is a good option, surely ? Four hugely supported teams, in one area, all day drinking, lack of transport provision, depending on results could be horrible for fans leaving the late game............Glasgow police couldn't even control a crowd within Parkhead recently (which is this week being reviewed :rolleyes:) and yet they can now control four teams support arriving in the city from around 10am until midnight..............ok then :aok:

Is it any wonder our game is ridiculed everywhere but here :agree:

[danhibees1875]

Farce. Imagine the carnige later on if Aberdeen win.

Aberdeen winning on penalties, then annoyed rangers fans and jubilant Aberdeen fans leaving Hampden through a sea of bevvied Celtic and hearts fans. I can't see any issues here!

I'd expect both games to be Hampden and neither can be the Saturday due to OF Europa action - this genuinely seems like the most logical decision... I'd also expect hearts to take about 20k.

[brianmc]

Aberdeen winning on penalties, then annoyed rangers fans and jubilant Aberdeen fans leaving Hampden through a sea of bevvied Celtic and hearts fans. I can't see any issues here!

I'd expect both games to be Hampden and neither can be the Saturday due to OF Europa action - this genuinely seems like the most logical decision... I'd also expect hearts to take about 20k.

20k???
Had a look on kickback earlier and they seem to think they'll take around 6k

[danhibees1875]

20k???
Had a look on kickback earlier and they seem to think they'll take around 6k

Surely not :confused:

Guess we'll see (when there's a thread about it on here after :duck: )

[son of haggart]

20k???
Had a look on kickback earlier and they seem to think they'll take around 6k


Would think it will be more than that but not much - no chance of getting back by public transport if there's extra time and penalties, no danger I'll be taking my kids

A farcical decision quite clearly made to suit the OF alone.

[BullsCloseHibs]

Logistical nightmare . Bonkers , all to suit the Bigot Brothers obviously, as they were offered Murrayfield.

It suits The Rangers. Simple as that. Well done the blazers again. Arrogance and utterly incompetent. Hope Aberdeen really do hump them and then win the Damn Cup.

[Libby Hibby]

Another Aberdeen statement...they really do like a moan.

[SirDavidsNapper]

The Glasgow blazers would never let a semi final be played in Edinburgh. This shows how much of a lie the whole "we considered Murrayfield" thing was. SPFL/SFA same corrupt difference

[BullsCloseHibs]

Another Aberdeen statement...they really do like a moan.

If it had been The Rangers playing at Aberdeen at midday on a Sunday, by christ there would be multiple statements!

[G B Young]

Sheep are not surprisingly raging. Not a peep out of Hearts so far.

[basehibby]

Scottish Football - leading the world in bloody minded idiocy for 150 years!

It's the sheep I really feel sorry for but the Yams have gotten a raw deal as well. Could have been so easily sorted by having the sheep game on at Murrayfield at a sensible time when fans could actually get there! Then the other match could have been played at a time when the trains will still be running when it's all over.

Absolutely zero consideration for the fans unless they happen to support Celtic or Rangers in this moronic shambles.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Would think it will be more than that but not much - no chance of getting back by public transport if there's extra time and penalties, no danger I'll be taking my kids

A farcical decision quite clearly made to suit the OF alone.

You'll get a healthy turnout, though the decision to play both games on the same day will certainly put some off.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Another Aberdeen statement...they really do like a moan.

They have a valid point.

[Libby Hibby]

Sheep are not surprisingly raging. Not a peep out of Hearts so far.

That’s because Hearts know when to keep quiet, as SPFL kept them In the trophy opposed to throwing them out when fielding an illegible player.

[Santa Cruz]

To add to the travel woes with the trains, I believe Kevin Bridges is at the Hydro that night. Sell out, 15k. Glad I'm not going to that, you'd be on the same train as everyone at the match travelling back. This last train (if it goes to E.T and pens) will now need to hold about 10,000!! On the upside, would imagine there will now be a lot of cheap tickets suddenly become available on Gumtree from folk wanting to go the game. Kev'll no doubt be raging himself given he's a celtic fan.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

Would think it will be more than that but not much - no chance of getting back by public transport if there's extra time and penalties, no danger I'll be taking my kids

A farcical decision quite clearly made to suit the OF alone.

Why not? Even if it goes to pens it's done by 10,30.

[Libby Hibby]

They have a valid point.

Do they though? What else could the authorities of done? Murrayfield not an option after the public spat with SRU. It’s also not the SPFL’s issue where Aberdeen are geographically positioned.

[Smartie]

The grass will have had an extra few hours to grow. Hope Rodgers isn’t too upset.

Why would Rodgers be upset about the height of Lee Wallace?

[Hibernia&Alba]

Do they though? What else could the authorities of done? Murrayfield not an option after the public spat with SRU. It’s also not the SPFL’s issue where Aberdeen are geographically positioned.

Surely the Aberdeen game should be the later one?

[danhibees1875]

Surely the Aberdeen game should be the later one?

With no trains home?

If the solution to the trains is a hotel, I'd rather stay in Glasgow on the Saturday night, then game and home on the Sunday.

[Hibernia&Alba]

With no trains home?

If the solution to the trains is a hotel, I'd rather stay in Glasgow on the Saturday night, then game and home on the Sunday.

But, if it's to be two games on the same day (a terrible decision) surely folk travelling from Aberdeen should get the later match? Putting them on at noon will disrupt family groups, for example, and impact the Aberdeen attendance? The solution must surely be play the games on different days, as this is better for both fans and public order.

[Bostonhibby]

Aberdeen winning on penalties, then annoyed rangers fans and jubilant Aberdeen fans leaving Hampden through a sea of bevvied Celtic and hearts fans. I can't see any issues here!

I'd expect both games to be Hampden and neither can be the Saturday due to OF Europa action - this genuinely seems like the most logical decision... I'd also expect hearts to take about 20k.Some scenario, I just worry about plod Glasgow who had the victory party pencilled in, how are they going to cope?

Whatever sevco do on the day plod are going to miss out on another party just like the 2016 Scottish cup final.

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[danhibees1875]

But, if it's to be two games on the same day (a terrible decision) surely folk travelling from Aberdeen should get the later match? Putting them on at noon will disrupt family groups, for example, and impact the Aberdeen attendance? The solution must surely be play the games on different days, as this is better for both fans and public order.

Having them on the 7:45 slot would disrupt family groups
too I would have thought. They're better setting off fairly early on a Sunday than getting back very late.

I guess they could just play it the following weekend and have both games at 3pm - just a week apart.

That way Hibs could still play rangers on cup semi weekend and save that fixture pile up. Aberdeen could fulfil their league fixture that weekend instead of the next too to make room for the semi a week later. :dunno:

[G B Young]

That’s because Hearts know when to keep quiet, as SPFL kept them In the trophy opposed to throwing them out when fielding an illegible player.

Good point.

[lapsedhibee]

Why not? Even if it goes to pens it's done by 10,30.

Won't the weegie polis want to keep the away supporters back though, while the home fans disperse?

[Hibernia&Alba]

Having them on the 7:45 slot would disrupt family groups
too I would have thought. They're better setting off fairly early on a Sunday than getting back very late.

I guess they could just play it the following weekend and have both games at 3pm - just a week apart.

That way Hibs could still play rangers on cup semi weekend and save that fixture pile up. Aberdeen could fulfil their league fixture that weekend instead of the next too to make room for the semi a week later. :dunno:

Just have one game Saturday and one Sunday at 3 p.m.. Nae problem.

[danhibees1875]

Just have one game Saturday and one Sunday at 3 p.m.. Nae problem.

OF play in Europe on Thursdays. So Saturday games are out.

[BOB MARLEYS DUG]

Llllletsss get readyyy tooooo rumbleeeee

[silverhibee]

Could one of the fixtures not have been played at 7.45 on the Saturday night.

Listened to Doncaster try ing justify this utter madness, he seemed happy that both games were being shown live on BT, a day of mayhem, has Manchester written all over this.

[jgl07]

Absolute bull**** where it says that the ties are obliged to be played at Hampden unless the police say otherwise. I seem to recall rather a lot of League Cup semifinals being played at Tynecastle, Easter Road and other venues. I think they were mixing it up with the Scottish Cup?

It’s going to be fun with the Sevco lot coming out and meeting up with the Dodgers’ fans going out. I would give the centre of Glasgow a wide berth that day.

[silverhibee]

They will have special trains on stand by should they be required.

Special trains for the simple fans.

[Hibs1969]

More Glasgow-centric bullsh*t.

The world begins and ends at Hampden, regardless of the cost, inconvenience or hassle involved. This was the perfect opportunity to spread games around the country but the SFA chose not to. Instead they’ve created their own chaos theory with every team unhappy at the hand they’ve been dealt.

Laugh - you couldn’t make it up.

[Albanian Hibs]

Couldnt have happened to nicer sets of fans 😂

[cleanyman]

Wish it was us

Going to be a great day

[Hibernia&Alba]

OF play in Europe on Thursdays. So Saturday games are out.

Fair point, but why not stagger them over two weekends then?

[CropleyWasGod]

More Glasgow-centric bullsh*t.

The world begins and ends at Hampden, regardless of the cost, inconvenience or hassle involved. This was the perfect opportunity to spread games around the country but the SFA chose not to. Instead they’ve created their own chaos theory with every team unhappy at the hand they’ve been dealt.

Laugh - you couldn’t make it up.

It's got SFA to do with the SFA.

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[CropleyWasGod]

Absolute bull**** where it says that the ties are obliged to be played at Hampden unless the police say otherwise. I seem to recall rather a lot of League Cup semifinals being played at Tynecastle, Easter Road and other venues. I think they were mixing it up with the Scottish Cup?

It’s going to be fun with the Sevco lot coming out and meeting up with the Dodgers’ fans going out. I would give the centre of Glasgow a wide berth that day.I'm guessing that the sponsorship deal with Betfred has that obligation in the contract.

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[danhibees1875]

Fair point, but why not stagger them over two weekends then?

I suggested that in a previous post - I think it would have been the way to go, all things considered. :agree:

[I'm Spartacus]

Scottish football is being held back by those that run it and those 2 ugly sisters :(

[murray26]

Am I the only one who is quite happy about this.. suits us down to the ground.. well done SFA 😂

[hibee_girl]

To add to the travel woes with the trains, I believe Kevin Bridges is at the Hydro that night. Sell out, 15k. Glad I'm not going to that, you'd be on the same train as everyone at the match travelling back. This last train (if it goes to E.T and pens) will now need to hold about 10,000!! On the upside, would imagine there will now be a lot of cheap tickets suddenly become available on Gumtree from folk wanting to go the game. Kev'll no doubt be raging himself given he's a celtic fan.

:agree:

Glasgow will be crazy busy that day!

[truehibernian]

Scottish football is being held back by those that run it and those 2 ugly sisters :(

Dare I say it, it needs a Barry Hearn type who can see past that and invigorate not only the clubs throughout the leagues, but the media here and abroad to sell the product. The only thing Doncaster would sell you around a table would be action men figures as that's what you would leave thinking of.

Either that or we should proactively get rid of the Old Firm as a collective and encourage them away from Scotland and see if England will take them :aok: For me, that is the ideal scenario (assuming they start in League 2).

[Lancs Harp]

Dare I say it, it needs a Barry Hearn type who can see past that and invigorate not only the clubs throughout the leagues, but the media here and abroad to sell the product. The only thing Doncaster would sell you around a table would be action men figures as that's what you would leave thinking of.

Either that or we should proactively get rid of the Old Firm as a collective and encourage them away from Scotland and see if England will take them :aok: For me, that is the ideal scenario (assuming they start in League 2).

Celtic and Rangers will never play league football in England.

[Borderhibbie76]

Getting in and out of Hampden.by car is nigh on impossible when there is just 1 match on...can u imagine the travel chaos between these 2 matches...only the SPFL would come up with this nonsense...

It's actually sweetened losing that pen shoot out on Tues a bit now (Just a tiny bit mind) as Glasgow will be a nightmare on that Sunday...utter chaos

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[johnbc70]

Budge

The 4 clubs involved in the semi-finals met today at Hampden to discuss arrangements for the matches. We were advised that our semi-final match with Celtic will be played at 7.45pm on Sunday, October 28th at Hampden with Aberdeen facing Rangers at the same venue at 12pm. Whatever options I may have expected, I was astonished...and I was not alone in that regard...to be informed that both games would be played on the same day at Hampden. I had gone into the meeting, confident that the games would be scheduled for different venues...or if not, for different days.

It was explained that it was essential to play both games at Hampden because of contractual obligations between the SPFL and Hampden and that the heavily congested fixtures meant that postponing one of the games to the following week was not feasible.

We were further advised that both Police Scotland and Hampden have given their assurances to the SPFL that they will be able to manage the demands of two games in one day. We discussed this at length and I made it clear that we were far from happy with the scheduling, particularly in light of the difficulties it would cause to all traveling supporters...from all clubs. At a time when Scottish football is thriving we should be doing all we can to encourage fans to come along…not make it difficult or even impossible.

I also expressed my concern, from a footballing point of view, in terms of whether the pitch would stand up to two games in one day, especially if the weather is bad. We were assured by the representative from Hampden that this would not be a problem.

Still concerned, I asked whether the SPFL would explore with Hampden the possibility of releasing us from the obligation to play both games at Hampden given the very special circumstances. I was advised late this afternoon that a formal request had been made following our meeting but that no release from our contractual obligations was possible.

In summary, I have made my feelings clear, on behalf of Heart of Midlothian Football Club, both in person and in writing, that we do have serious concerns that the planned schedule is not in the best interest of Scottish football, the club and certainly not the supporters. Following further conversations this evening, I do not believe the plan can/will be changed. However, we will remain in dialogue with the SPFL to try to ensure we make this occasion what it should be; a memorable day out for the supporters of all four football clubs involved in the competition.

Ann Budge

[Lancs Harp]

Perhaps they could shoe horn a Queens Park match in between, say kick off at 4.

[SMAXXA]

Perhaps they could shoe horn a Queens Park match in between, say kick off at 4.

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[Borderhibbie76]

Perhaps they could shoe horn a Queens Park match in between, say kick off at 4.Maybe get a Kylie concert on for Say 11pm.on the Sunday night too...May as well maximise use out of the national stadium ah?? [emoji85][emoji6]

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[Not In The Know]

I bet they run out of pies 🤣🤣

[Bostonhibby]

Budge

The 4 clubs involved in the semi-finals met today at Hampden to discuss arrangements for the matches. We were advised that our semi-final match with Celtic will be played at 7.45pm on Sunday, October 28th at Hampden with Aberdeen facing Rangers at the same venue at 12pm. Whatever options I may have expected, I was astonished...and I was not alone in that regard...to be informed that both games would be played on the same day at Hampden. I had gone into the meeting, confident that the games would be scheduled for different venues...or if not, for different days.

It was explained that it was essential to play both games at Hampden because of contractual obligations between the SPFL and Hampden and that the heavily congested fixtures meant that postponing one of the games to the following week was not feasible.

We were further advised that both Police Scotland and Hampden have given their assurances to the SPFL that they will be able to manage the demands of two games in one day. We discussed this at length and I made it clear that we were far from happy with the scheduling, particularly in light of the difficulties it would cause to all traveling supporters...from all clubs. At a time when Scottish football is thriving we should be doing all we can to encourage fans to come along…not make it difficult or even impossible.

I also expressed my concern, from a footballing point of view, in terms of whether the pitch would stand up to two games in one day, especially if the weather is bad. We were assured by the representative from Hampden that this would not be a problem.

Still concerned, I asked whether the SPFL would explore with Hampden the possibility of releasing us from the obligation to play both games at Hampden given the very special circumstances. I was advised late this afternoon that a formal request had been made following our meeting but that no release from our contractual obligations was possible.

In summary, I have made my feelings clear, on behalf of Heart of Midlothian Football Club, both in person and in writing, that we do have serious concerns that the planned schedule is not in the best interest of Scottish football, the club and certainly not the supporters. Following further conversations this evening, I do not believe the plan can/will be changed. However, we will remain in dialogue with the SPFL to try to ensure we make this occasion what it should be; a memorable day out for the supporters of all four football clubs involved in the competition.

Ann BudgeShe likes a statement right enough. I'm guessing this was the edited highlights and the bit about the standard of the pitch was her Stanley Baxter moment of irony.

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[Danderhall Hibs]

I thought the SPFL were the clubs? Did Budge forget?

[surreyhibbie]

First time I have ever actually agreed with Budge.

Madness, it will all end in tears.

Unless the maroon morons lose, then I will be laughing my socks off.

[monktonharp]

ET and pens would be perfect, given we've got them on Tuesday night!added to that, a better chance of a clash with each and everyone of them after match. this could be real fun. 4 sets of fans, and they all meet in the middle lol.

[monktonharp]

More Glasgow-centric bullsh*t.

The world begins and ends at Hampden, regardless of the cost, inconvenience or hassle involved. This was the perfect opportunity to spread games around the country but the SFA chose not to. Instead they’ve created their own chaos theory with every team unhappy at the hand they’ve been dealt.

Laugh - you couldn’t make it up.these games are organised by the Scottish League organisation are they not/ not to be confused by the English FA, who seem to rule all of their competitions, if I am correct?

[monktonharp]

First time I have ever actually agreed with Budge.

Madness, it will all end in tears.

Unless the maroon morons lose, then I will be laughing my socks off.so what if they win? how will you be? confused

[MWHIBBIES]

Budge is right, its madness. But since Hibs aren't involved I'm glad its happened and hope its a massive disaster.

[Hibernia&Alba]

Budge is right, its madness. But since Hibs aren't involved I'm glad its happened and hope its a massive disaster.

Let's not have anyone hurt, especially innocent fans.

[monktonharp]

Let's not have anyone hurt, especially innocent fans.i'm sure there will be innocents, when the battle comes

[Hibernia&Alba]

i'm sure there will be innocents, when the battle comes

Sadly yes, it's a huge risk.

[hibsdaft]

It sounds like a recipe for disaster, but didn't we all say that about last year's Hogmanay old firm game? That passed off as peacefully as any other OF game in the end though, as far as I can remember anyway. 6 hours and 45 minutes between the two games, that's a fair bit of time. Most Aberdeen fans will head straight home given travel time, and most old firms fans tend to drink in different pubs anyway. Maybe it won't be the Battle Royal folk are predicting.

[Hibernia&Alba]

It sounds like a recipe for disaster, but didn't we all say that about last year's Hogmanay old firm game? That passed off as peacefully as any other OF game in the end though, as far as I can remember anyway. 6 hours and 45 minutes between the two games, that's a fair bit of time. Most Aberdeen fans will head straight home given travel time, and most old firms fans tend to drink in different pubs anyway. Maybe it won't be the Battle Royal folk are predicting.

Let's hope you're right, but there is the risk it could go very wrong. The authorities should be sensible and try to minimise the risks.

[Libby Hibby]

Budge

The 4 clubs involved in the semi-finals met today at Hampden to discuss arrangements for the matches. We were advised that our semi-final match with Celtic will be played at 7.45pm on Sunday, October 28th at Hampden with Aberdeen facing Rangers at the same venue at 12pm. Whatever options I may have expected, I was astonished...and I was not alone in that regard...to be informed that both games would be played on the same day at Hampden. I had gone into the meeting, confident that the games would be scheduled for different venues...or if not, for different days.

It was explained that it was essential to play both games at Hampden because of contractual obligations between the SPFL and Hampden and that the heavily congested fixtures meant that postponing one of the games to the following week was not feasible.

We were further advised that both Police Scotland and Hampden have given their assurances to the SPFL that they will be able to manage the demands of two games in one day. We discussed this at length and I made it clear that we were far from happy with the scheduling, particularly in light of the difficulties it would cause to all traveling supporters...from all clubs. At a time when Scottish football is thriving we should be doing all we can to encourage fans to come along…not make it difficult or even impossible.

I also expressed my concern, from a footballing point of view, in terms of whether the pitch would stand up to two games in one day, especially if the weather is bad. We were assured by the representative from Hampden that this would not be a problem.

Still concerned, I asked whether the SPFL would explore with Hampden the possibility of releasing us from the obligation to play both games at Hampden given the very special circumstances. I was advised late this afternoon that a formal request had been made following our meeting but that no release from our contractual obligations was possible.

In summary, I have made my feelings clear, on behalf of Heart of Midlothian Football Club, both in person and in writing, that we do have serious concerns that the planned schedule is not in the best interest of Scottish football, the club and certainly not the supporters. Following further conversations this evening, I do not believe the plan can/will be changed. However, we will remain in dialogue with the SPFL to try to ensure we make this occasion what it should be; a memorable day out for the supporters of all four football clubs involved in the competition.

Ann Budge

She has a cheek to complain, like I said earlier, her club have benefited massively from the SPFL and should’ve been thrown out the competition due to fielding an eligible player in an earlier game.

Short memory.

[bigwheel]

Will the Hearts fans just leave their union jacks and red hand of Ulster flags in the stadium..or will there be a special march where they meet up and hand them over ??

[Diclonius]

wow

[IGRIGI]

At least Hearts have their World War winning mentality to see them through the streets of Glasgow.

[oldbutdim]

wow

Which bit ?

[Wembley67]

It will pass of without any or little disorder, many fans still have there heads stuck back 20yrs ago. It's a crazy decision yes but believe it or not the police will have things well under control as always.

[hibbyfraelibby]

Sheep are not surprisingly raging. Not a peep out of Hearts so far.

There's been a statement...

[Phil MaGlass]

all we need now is heavy rain to bugger up the grass for the first game, turning the pitch into a tattie field, giving hertz a massive advantage in the second game, carnage on the streets of Glasgow, before and after the game, I reckon other clubs hooligans will also be planning accordingly. Mayhem predicted for this one.
I wouldnae be surprised if Hibs casuals had plans for this one, such an opportunity for chaos cant be passed up. We could possibly have scenes such as the Scotland v england game many moons ago where glasgow was one massive battlefield.

[Gatecrasher]

Everyone seems to think it will be carnage but i dont think it will be that bad. The first game will be finished by half 2/3 O'clock at the latest and most of the fans for the next game wont be arriving for another couple of hours at least. I'm not saying there wont be incedants but it wont be as bad as some are making it out to be.

The main issue for me is the Aberdeen and Hearts fans getting to and from the games, Busses are going to be expensive.

[Real Emerald]

I'm guessing that the sponsorship deal with Betfred has that obligation in the contract.

Sent from my SM-A520F using Tapatalk

Is it a new contract, as we played a semi at Tynie in 2016 or is it because they won’t dare take the bigot brothers out of Glasgow. Remember, they have their own ends of the National neutral venue regardless of who they’re playing and any difficult travel others have by having to skirt around the whole of Glasgow. The arse cheeks can’t be upset you know.

[The Harp Awakes]

Scottish football is being held back by those that run it and those 2 ugly sisters :(

Correct, and sadly this has been the case always. The SFA and SPFL are incapable of making a correct decision and yet they have no accountability. The decision to continue with international games at Hampden was a fiasco and the last straw for me. I'll never give up on Hibs but going to Scotland games will be a thing in the past for me.

[CropleyWasGod]

Is it a new contract, as we played a semi at Tynie in 2016 or is it because they won’t dare take the bigot brothers out of Glasgow. Remember, they have their own ends of the National neutral venue regardless of who they’re playing and any difficult travel others have by having to skirt around the whole of Glasgow. The arse cheeks can’t be upset you know.It was a different sponsor then, wasn't it? Certainly was a different format.

Sent from my SM-A520F using Tapatalk

[son of haggart]

Everyone seems to think it will be carnage but i dont think it will be that bad. The first game will be finished by half 2/3 O'clock at the latest and most of the fans for the next game wont be arriving for another couple of hours at least. I'm not saying there wont be incedants but it wont be as bad as some are making it out to be.

The main issue for me is the Aberdeen and Hearts fans getting to and from the games, Busses are going to be expensive.



I agree - the carnage things is unlikely (though there must be a higher chance of smaller scale incidents with pissed fans from the first game still in town, at stations etc). However the main problem is that the fans of the two teams not from Glasgow are being massively discouraged from attending. In my case I have to travel from about 60 miles away and there are no public transport options to get me back that night even if the game finished in normal time. I'm not keen on night driving (getting on a bit) and in any case would have taken my daughter with me and she has school the next day. Therefore I wont be going and neither will she - must be many more in the same boat. And as for Aberdeen fans having to get there at 12.30 simply ridiculous. I guess they are on first because that gives poor old Celtic a bit longer to recover from their European trip.....never mind that many of Aberdeen's fans will now not attend.

[Scotty Leither]

Budge

The 4 clubs involved in the semi-finals met today at Hampden to discuss arrangements for the matches. We were advised that our semi-final match with Celtic will be played at 7.45pm on Sunday, October 28th at Hampden with Aberdeen facing Rangers at the same venue at 12pm. Whatever options I may have expected, I was astonished...and I was not alone in that regard...to be informed that both games would be played on the same day at Hampden. I had gone into the meeting, confident that the games would be scheduled for different venues...or if not, for different days.

It was explained that it was essential to play both games at Hampden because of contractual obligations between the SPFL and Hampden and that the heavily congested fixtures meant that postponing one of the games to the following week was not feasible.

We were further advised that both Police Scotland and Hampden have given their assurances to the SPFL that they will be able to manage the demands of two games in one day. We discussed this at length and I made it clear that we were far from happy with the scheduling, particularly in light of the difficulties it would cause to all traveling supporters...from all clubs. At a time when Scottish football is thriving we should be doing all we can to encourage fans to come along…not make it difficult or even impossible.

I also expressed my concern, from a footballing point of view, in terms of whether the pitch would stand up to two games in one day, especially if the weather is bad. We were assured by the representative from Hampden that this would not be a problem.

Still concerned, I asked whether the SPFL would explore with Hampden the possibility of releasing us from the obligation to play both games at Hampden given the very special circumstances. I was advised late this afternoon that a formal request had been made following our meeting but that no release from our contractual obligations was possible.

In summary, I have made my feelings clear, on behalf of Heart of Midlothian Football Club, both in person and in writing, that we do have serious concerns that the planned schedule is not in the best interest of Scottish football, the club and certainly not the supporters. Following further conversations this evening, I do not believe the plan can/will be changed. However, we will remain in dialogue with the SPFL to try to ensure we make this occasion what it should be; a memorable day out for the supporters of all four football clubs involved in the competition.

Ann Budge

Nae doubt she'll be lauded as the voice of reason by her mates on Radio Scotland on Saturday coming. Her team shouldn't be there as they should be disqualified for fielding an ineligible player.

[SouthMoroccoStu]

Another Aberdeen statement...they really do like a moan.

They’ve got a point on this one!

It’s not actually possible to get from Aberdeen to Glasgow (just the city not the stadium) by train before 12:30 on a Sunday morning

[bigwheel]

They’ve got a point on this one!

It’s not actually possible to get from Aberdeen to Glasgow (just the city not the stadium) by train before 12:30 on a Sunday morning


The games would have been at 1215 on the Saturday or the Sunday if it had gone to original plan. That's what comes with the TV deal...

[Diclonius]

I agree - the carnage things is unlikely (though there must be a higher chance of smaller scale incidents with pissed fans from the first game still in town, at stations etc). However the main problem is that the fans of the two teams not from Glasgow are being massively discouraged from attending. In my case I have to travel from about 60 miles away and there are no public transport options to get me back that night even if the game finished in normal time. I'm not keen on night driving (getting on a bit) and in any case would have taken my daughter with me and she has school the next day. Therefore I wont be going and neither will she - must be many more in the same boat. And as for Aberdeen fans having to get there at 12.30 simply ridiculous. I guess they are on first because that gives poor old Celtic a bit longer to recover from their European trip.....never mind that many of Aberdeen's fans will now not attend.

Spot on. Every little detail is taken to accomodate the OF (who's fans live in the ****ing city and therefore will NEVER have any problems) and the other two clubs are treated as an afterthought. Did the organising committee or Police Scotland even know who they were? Did they care?

Aberdeen in particular are shafted almost every single time they play at Hampden. The authorities literally do not care. In a hypothetical scenario where Celtic or Rangers had to travel to a neutral venue in Scotland three hours from Glasgow, you can absolutely guarantee it would not start at 12pm.

[Since90+2]

I agree - the carnage things is unlikely (though there must be a higher chance of smaller scale incidents with pissed fans from the first game still in town, at stations etc). However the main problem is that the fans of the two teams not from Glasgow are being massively discouraged from attending. In my case I have to travel from about 60 miles away and there are no public transport options to get me back that night even if the game finished in normal time. I'm not keen on night driving (getting on a bit) and in any case would have taken my daughter with me and she has school the next day. Therefore I wont be going and neither will she - must be many more in the same boat. And as for Aberdeen fans having to get there at 12.30 simply ridiculous. I guess they are on first because that gives poor old Celtic a bit longer to recover from their European trip.....never mind that many of Aberdeen's fans will now not attend.

It was on the advise of Police Scotland that Aberdeen V Rangers was the first game to be played.

[Libby Hibby]

They’ve got a point on this one!

It’s not actually possible to get from Aberdeen to Glasgow (just the city not the stadium) by train before 12:30 on a Sunday morning

Go by bus or car.

[Ozyhibby]

Lucky we didn’t beat Aberdeen. Putting on a 2nd game after we pump Sevco might have been a bit tricky.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180928/2a05fda79fe60d315c2f12f354c03ded.jpg



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[green&left]

Go by bus or car.

This.

Aberdeen to Glasgow that day is 50 quid return on the train. Realistically how many would travel by train at that price? There's nothing to stop Aberdeen FC or their fans chartering a fitba special if they're that desperate for rail travel. They can jump a supporters bus at 8am and still have time for a can and bacon roll at Asda when they arrive...


I agree - the carnage things is unlikely (though there must be a higher chance of smaller scale incidents with pissed fans from the first game still in town, at stations etc). However the main problem is that the fans of the two teams not from Glasgow are being massively discouraged from attending. In my case I have to travel from about 60 miles away and there are no public transport options to get me back that night even if the game finished in normal time. I'm not keen on night driving (getting on a bit) and in any case would have taken my daughter with me and she has school the next day. Therefore I wont be going and neither will she - must be many more in the same boat. And as for Aberdeen fans having to get there at 12.30 simply ridiculous. I guess they are on first because that gives poor old Celtic a bit longer to recover from their European trip.....never mind that many of Aberdeen's fans will now not attend.

If they put Aberdeen on second they'd have the same problems would they not? i.e the last train would be leaving Glasgow for Aberdeen while the game was still being played...

[G B Young]

Budge is right, its madness. But since Hibs aren't involved I'm glad its happened and hope its a massive disaster.

As others have pointed out, the yams only remain in the competition by default so should simply suck it up and be grateful they're being allowed to play the game at all.

[SirDavidsNapper]

Apparently Google Maps are putting measures in place to stop the system crashing on semi final day with Hearts fans set to travel to Hampden in numbers

[oldbutdim]

"We are pleased to have come to an arrangement that suits everyone"

Is exactly what Doncaster said.
Since that utterance, The Sheepies and the Gunts have issued statements saying that the arrangements don't suit them.

Obviously Doncaster didn't intend 'everyone' to be the Twisted Sisters and who cares about any other teams involved, so Budge and her opposite number at the Sheepies must have lied to Doncaster - said they were happy and then rubbished him later through the issuing of statements. Probably they don't like his haircut (who does?) or something like that.

Yet another example of Doncaster and the Twisted Sisters being picked on needlessly.


Jabba should be crayoning a statement to put the record straight.



The Daily Record that is.

[G B Young]

I agree - the carnage things is unlikely (though there must be a higher chance of smaller scale incidents with pissed fans from the first game still in town, at stations etc). However the main problem is that the fans of the two teams not from Glasgow are being massively discouraged from attending. In my case I have to travel from about 60 miles away and there are no public transport options to get me back that night even if the game finished in normal time. I'm not keen on night driving (getting on a bit) and in any case would have taken my daughter with me and she has school the next day. Therefore I wont be going and neither will she - must be many more in the same boat. And as for Aberdeen fans having to get there at 12.30 simply ridiculous. I guess they are on first because that gives poor old Celtic a bit longer to recover from their European trip.....never mind that many of Aberdeen's fans will now not attend.

The decision to have Aberdeen on first was on the advice of Police Scotland, nothing to do with benefiting Celtic. It's because it was deemed that getting to Glasgow for a noon kick-off was a lesser difficulty than trying to get back to Aberdeen at (potentially) 10.30 on a Sunday night.

Like you, I'll be surprised if there's anything major in terms of trouble. The Hearts and Aberdeen supports will be significantly reduced and I'm not sure how highly a League Cup semi-final rates for Celtic and Rangers fans. Probably means more to Rangers fans given their desperation to get back among the trophies, but Celtic may not sell out their allocation.

The biggest issue here is not having both games on the same day, but having them in the same stadium. Back in the day it wasn't so unusual to have two big games on in the same city and in 1972 Celtic and Rangers famously hosted a European Cup semi-final and a Cup-Winners' Cup semi-final on the same night, with the combined crowd totalling something like 150,000. I also recall Hibs and Hearts playing home cup ties on the same Saturdays without any fuss.

[JK Rolling]

If they were looking after the Glasgow clubs they'd have been drawn together.



Care to elaborate a tad further re this?



My perception has always been that the OF prefer to meet in the Final. Money/Prestige, etc.

Also, it is fairly obvious that the SFA prefer this also for the same reasons.

[O'Rourke3]

Wonder what the NI Ferry situation will be?

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[Bostonhibby]

Wonder what the NI Ferry situation will be?

Sent from my F8331 using TapatalkFull of obnoxious Irishmen singing about the British queen and a lot of religious nonsense that should have nothing to do with football in Scotland?

Sent from my SM-J320FN using Tapatalk

[O'Rourke3]

Full of obnoxious Irishmen singing about the British queen and a lot of religious nonsense that should have nothing to do with football in Scotland?

Sent from my SM-J320FN using TapatalkOf course, but since both cheeks are unusually 'at home' on the same day both sets will be out in greater force potentially sharing the same post match crossing.

Sent from my F8331 using Tapatalk

[Bostonhibby]

Of course, but since both cheeks are unusually 'at home' on the same day both sets will be out in greater force potentially sharing the same post match crossing.

Sent from my F8331 using TapatalkIndeed, should have added negative and positive singing about the Pope, IRA, Some camp Dutch guy with a powdery wig and riding a white pony.

All vital features of Scottish football.

Sent from my SM-J320FN using Tapatalk

[timewilltell]

all we need now is heavy rain to bugger up the grass for the first game, turning the pitch into a tattie field, giving hertz a massive advantage in the second game, carnage on the streets of Glasgow, before and after the game, I reckon other clubs hooligans will also be planning accordingly. Mayhem predicted for this one.
I wouldnae be surprised if Hibs casuals had plans for this one, such an opportunity for chaos cant be passed up. We could possibly have scenes such as the Scotland v england game many moons ago where glasgow was one massive battlefield.

What absolute nonsense...

[SirDavidsNapper]

Will the Hearts fans just leave their union jacks and red hand of Ulster flags in the stadium..or will there be a special march where they meet up and hand them over ??

Rangers fans leaving them for their wee brothers

[Steven79]

Levein is spot on for a change.

https://stv.tv/sport/football/1431381-in-full-craig-levein-rails-against-spfl-and-neil-doncaster/

In full: Craig Levein rails against SPFL and Neil Doncaster


The Hearts boss says there is no logic to the League Cup semi-final schedule.


Furious: Levein says the SPFL got it wrong. SNS Group Craig Levein has branded the SPFL's decision to play the League Cup semi-finals on the same day at Hampden as "crazy" and says the organisers haven't done their job properly.
The Hearts boss believes the SPFL could have reached the worst decision they could have come to and are disregarding the best interests of supporters.
In a lengthy media conference before the match at St Johnstone , he gave his thoughts on the decision and made his feeling clearly known.

Here's what Levein had to say about the plan that sees his side play Celtic at Hampden on October 28 at 7.45pm, hours after Aberdeen and Rangers have met on the same pitch:


"It's the craziest thing I've ever experienced in football.


"How you can come to this decision based around what should be one of the... there are four semi-finals in the season in the two big cup competitions so it's a huge thing for Scottish football. So how they've come to this decision is beyond belief.


"It's just madness, honestly. There's so many things that could go wrong.


"The first thing is that we've not been to a semi-final for five years. We want to go and play at Hampden and we want our supporters to be there in numbers. That is my priority.


"I want 50% of the tickets. I want to go to Hampden and feel like we've got a huge Hearts presence there. There's one thing for certain: we're not getting that on a Sunday night at 7.45pm. We're not getting that.


"I've got players talking to me about how disappointed their families are that they can't come and watch their dad playing in a semi-final. That'll go for our supporters and for Aberdeen's because of the travel arrangements that affect us most with the very nature of when the game is.


"I just don't understand how they can come to that decision and think it's all right. That's the thing with me, it just doesn't compute.


"You need supporters to come to the game to make it what it is. And we're actually discouraging them from coming to the game. It's absolute madness.


"See if it goes ahead at 7.45pm on a Sunday night, I want us to get 50% of the tickets. If we get 25,000 tickets and we only sell 15,000 this club will take no responsibility for that. That will fall fair and square back at the feet of Neil Doncaster and the SPFL because they made the decision to put a game on that does not suit supporters.


"That's not true. We've told them it doesn't suit us and Aberdeen have told them it doesn't suit them. How does that suit Aberdeen? And I know that the Old Firm have support from all over the country and I know it won't suit some of their supporters either. The vast majority will come from the Glasgow area so it's easier for them.


"I believe that there isn't a train from Aberdeen that gets in before 15 minutes after kick-off. How is that the best option to suit the four teams?


"Here's an option for you: Our biggest advantage against Celtic in this semi-final is Celtic playing on the Thursday evening in Europe. In my opinion I would give that up to have 25,000 Hearts supporters at Hampden to help us.


"We play Celtic the following week [in the league] so why don't we just cancel that game, reschedule it further down the line and play that day.


"What's wrong with that? Is that not a better solution?


"See when somebody says that the best option is X then I assume that they've looked at other options. If you're saying that's the best option then you must have looked at the rest.


"For me, why don't you just change the game against Celtic to be the cup tie. Is that not a better option?

[The SPFL say there is a contractual obligation]


"Only if the Old Firm are involved, eh?


"And who wrote that? Who signed that contract?


"See if you looked ahead and you envisaged that Celtic might not be in the Champions League and there's a chance they might be in the Europa League that would be a huge red flag immediately.


"So why would you sign a contract that said that? It just doesn't make sense.


"I'm getting annoyed. I just don't understand how this is the best option, and we've not really talked about some of the other things that could go wrong, like 100,000 supporters of four different clubs in Glasgow and it could be at the same time.


"And if something goes wrong, why would you tempt fate with so many things that could happen that would tarnish the name of Scottish football. This just defies any sort of logic.


"If it pours with rain then we have a situation that there's no way they could fix the pitch. There's no way, it just won't happen.


"Of course it's not. I really don't understand what the logic is behind this decision.


"I'm annoyed for the supporters and I'm annoyed for my players. I want half the stadium full of Hearts supporters when we play Celtic. I want the best chance of that happening.


"I've already said I'm happy to give up a competitive advantage of Celtic having played on the Thursday and us having no midweek match, to move to the following week when we would have both played midweek and we both play at the weekend. So that we have our supporters there in numbers.

[Would you give up part of the midwinter break to play that league game?]


"The scheduling of this game, surely we could find one date between now and April? That's all it needs to be.

[Could you see Hearts fans making a point of principle and not buying tickets?]


"I don't want that to happen either. It's turned what should be a magnificent experience for everybody into a situation where people don't want to go. It's farcical.


"Let me go back to this: If they are saying this is the best solution then they've not done their jobs properly.


"In fact, it could possibly be the worst decision."

[Steven79]

Here's the video.

https://heartstv.heartsfc.co.uk/tv/video/vod/1804

[cabbageandribs1875]

i don't believe in giving the sparryheids web traffic money...but thanks anyway

[G B Young]

Here's the video.

https://heartstv.heartsfc.co.uk/tv/video/vod/1804

And here's Levein the day before, claiming he doesn't care where or when the game is played!

https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/3268059/craig-levein-hearts-celtic-betfred-cup-semi-final-doesnt-care-venue/

[Steven79]

It's time to get out of this small minded mindset where it's only happening to Hearts & Aberdeen, it could well have been us involved and next time it could be and we will get shafted with a stupid kick off.

I would hate to be in the situation many Hearts fans are in where they won't be able to take their kids to the semi final or in some cases even let them watch the game on tv due to the stupid kick off time (I wouldn't be letting my 7 year old stay up till potentially half 10 on a school night to watch a match)

We all need to stick together against those that made this decision and those that benefit from this and lots of other decisions (The two cheeks) over the years.

[Future17]

And here's Levein the day before, claiming he doesn't care where or when the game is played!

https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/3268059/craig-levein-hearts-celtic-betfred-cup-semi-final-doesnt-care-venue/

Probably because he, like all of us, couldn't possibly foresee the SPFL making such a ridiculous decision.

Fair play to him for his comments today. I don't disagree with anything he's said.

I think we need to find out more about this "contractual obligation" as something stinks.

[Steven79]

Probably because he, like all of us, couldn't possibly foresee the SPFL making such a ridiculous decision.

Fair play to him for his comments today. I don't disagree with anything he's said.

I think we need to find out more about this "contractual obligation" as something stinks.

Hearts played the 12/13 league cup semi at Easter Road so what's changed? They also tried to take the Morton v Aberdeen game to a different venue so it's obviously something that has been done recently (If it's true)

[Since90+2]

Hearts played the 12/13 league cup semi at Easter Road so what's changed? They also tried to take the Morton v Aberdeen game to a different venue so it's obviously something that has been done recently (If it's true)

We played St Johnstone in a semi at Tynecastle a few years back.

[basehibby]

Do they though? What else could the authorities of done? Murrayfield not an option after the public spat with SRU. It’s also not the SPFL’s issue where Aberdeen are geographically positioned.

What spat???

As far as I knew all that had happened was the SFA (not the SPFL - separate body) had elected to remain at Hamden rather than use Murrayfield. Hardly a spat - all they did was decline an offer of a service so there is no spat.

It IS the SPFL's issue however, to consider the safety and convenience of their paying customers - something they have signally failed to do on this occasion (and not for the first time) unless of course these paying customers happen to live in Glasgow.

They have come out with some vague and frankly pathetic excuse about being contracted to play all their semis at Hamden. So - contracted to who and under what terms? Can't this be renegotiated with the business partners with whom this has been negotiated? Have they even tried to do so (I doubt it)? Even if this contract is binding then the question remains as to why they have negotiated such an inflexible and idiotic deal in the first place.

This is the act of a bunch of clueless idiots and/or unashamed Rantic stooges and it amazes me that you are even trying to stick up for these clowns - are you related to Doncaster or something?!?

[.Sean.]

Tell you what I canny stand Craig Levein but good on him for coming out and speaking up as he did earlier on.

Any wonder the game up here is often viewed as a laughing stock. Neil Doncaster is probably the thickest and out of touch person involved in Scottish football in my 28 years on the planet, clown of the highest order.

[Biggie]

The contract probably says if either of the old firm are involved in the semi-final it must be played at Hampden.

Would love to see Rangers draw ICT/Ross County in the semi and the SPFL say the games on at Pittodrie, on a Sunday at 12 noon....can you imagine the outcry

[Dancehibs]

Tell you what I canny stand Craig Levein but good on him for coming out and speaking up as he did earlier on.

Any wonder the game up here is often viewed as a laughing stock. Neil Doncaster is probably the thickest and out of touch person involved in Scottish football in my 28 years on the planet, clown of the highest order.

I agree but the clubs appoints Doncaster and its weird he keeps his job

[green&left]

The contract probably says if either of the old firm are involved in the semi-final it must be played at Hampden.

Would love to see Rangers draw ICT/Ross County in the semi and the SPFL say the games on at Pittodrie, on a Sunday at 12 noon....can you imagine the outcry



:rotflmao:

Why would they move it to a 21000 seater when Rangers could fill Hampden's 52000 capacity by themselves :cb

[Col2]

Hearts are right and have been totally shafted. So have the Dandies but at least they get home before midnight.

On the other hand am I the only who thinks this is hilarious? The jam mob were oh so excited about being in a semi, a return to Hampden for the first time in many years and a chance to win a trophy they haven’t won for 60 years or so. They might even have more fans if at Murrayfield....

Now they are faced with a nighttime trip against the champions and will take 10-12k fans (boycott will be the reason of course) and will get scudded 3-0.

[Coco Bryce]

Hearts & Aberdeen fans should boycott it in principle.

This is an utter disgrace the way they are being treated. Regardless of who it is the SPFL need to be called out on this.

[hibee_girl]

It's time to get out of this small minded mindset where it's only happening to Hearts & Aberdeen, it could well have been us involved and next time it could be and we will get shafted with a stupid kick off.

I would hate to be in the situation many Hearts fans are in where they won't be able to take their kids to the semi final or in some cases even let them watch the game on tv due to the stupid kick off time (I wouldn't be letting my 7 year old stay up till potentially half 10 on a school night to watch a match)

We all need to stick together against those that made this decision and those that benefit from this and lots of other decisions (The two cheeks) over the years.

Agree with this.

If no one makes a fuss about the craziness of this decision it could very well be us in this position next season etc. Doubt folk would find it so funny then

[where'stheslope]

What spat???

As far as I knew all that had happened was the SFA (not the SPFL - separate body) had elected to remain at Hamden rather than use Murrayfield. Hardly a spat - all they did was decline an offer of a service so there is no spat.

It IS the SPFL's issue however, to consider the safety and convenience of their paying customers - something they have signally failed to do on this occasion (and not for the first time) unless of course these paying customers happen to live in Glasgow.

They have come out with some vague and frankly pathetic excuse about being contracted to play all their semis at Hamden. So - contracted to who and under what terms? Can't this be renegotiated with the business partners with whom this has been negotiated? Have they even tried to do so (I doubt it)? Even if this contract is binding then the question remains as to why they have negotiated such an inflexible and idiotic deal in the first place.

This is the act of a bunch of clueless idiots and/or unashamed Rantic stooges and it amazes me that you are even trying to stick up for these clowns - are you related to Doncaster or something?!?
The contracual thing is only if the Old Firm are in the semi-final!

As usual all the other teams are insignificant to the SPFL!!!

All the talk is laughable to us as were not in it, but there would be meltdown on here if we were!

Aberdeen to Glasgow trains don't arrive in Glasgow till 15 minutes after kick off?

Last train home Glasgow to Edinburgh 11:30, what if there is extra time and penalties?

Imagine trying to get out of Hampden to Mount Florida, on the train into Glasgow Queen Street then walk or sprint over to Central Station and onto what will be an extremely packed train!!!!

I know its only them, but it could so easily have been us!!!!!

[SirDavidsNapper]

I hope it's as crap and awkward as possible for Hearts and their deluded supporters. I hope it's pishing down too.

[cleanyman]

I hope it's as crap and awkward as possible for Hearts and their deluded supporters. I hope it's pishing down too.

Ha

The above sits well with me too

[G B Young]

Hearts are right and have been totally shafted. So have the Dandies but at least they get home before midnight.

On the other hand am I the only who thinks this is hilarious? The jam mob were oh so excited about being in a semi, a return to Hampden for the first time in many years and a chance to win a trophy they haven’t won for 60 years or so. They might even have more fans if at Murrayfield....

Now they are faced with a nighttime trip against the champions and will take 10-12k fans (boycott will be the reason of course) and will get scudded 3-0.

No question we'd be having a moan too if it was Hibs in the yams' situation but you're right, because it's Hearts part of me is thinking take that Potter :na na:One minute you're happy to play the tie 'anytime, anywhere', the next your back into torn-faced mode because things didn't go your way.

They were probably hoping for Murrayfield so they could show their prowess as a fanbase. Too bad yams. Here's hoping for a rain-sodden 3-0 skelping in front of a half-empty Hampden.

[bawheid]

Now they are faced with a nighttime trip against the champions and will take 10-12k fans (boycott will be the reason of course) and will get scudded 3-0.

Shades of Rangers v Hibs in the League Cup semi-final 2004. Game on at night and on telly. Only 7000 Hibs fans present. Siege mentality, backs to the wall, non-stop singing all night. Hibs win on pens.

Great night.

[Shearer]

I hope it's as crap and awkward as possible for Hearts and their deluded supporters. I hope it's pishing down too.

Not really the point thought mate is it? In the overall scheme of Scottish football this is a farce. Can’t believe I’m saying this but good on Levein for speaking out and I agree with him. Even worse for Aberdeen

Even though it’s hearts it’s still a disgrace and doesn’t say much fro
Scottish football as a whole. If it was us we’d be fuming too

[Bostonhibby]

I hope it's as crap and awkward as possible for Hearts and their deluded supporters. I hope it's pishing down too.It does show the governing body up for the clowns bicycle that it is but I have absolutely no sympathy with the maroon balloons given how the same idiots kept them in the tournament in the first place.



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[IGRIGI]

I hope we get some snow forecasted for Sunday evening.

[Danderhall Hibs]

I’ve definitely heard in interviews that the “SPFL are the clubs” and that Doncaster is employed by the clubs to represent them.

Are Hearts and Aberdeen claiming that he’s gone rogue here?

[Libby Hibby]

F T Hearts

[danhibees1875]

Care to elaborate a tad further re this?



My perception has always been that the OF prefer to meet in the Final. Money/Prestige, etc.

Also, it is fairly obvious that the SFA prefer this also for the same reasons.

The easiest solution would have been for them to be drawn together and Hearts v Sheep on Saturday is I think what is meant.

That's not necessarily "looking after the OF" right enough. But it's how they would have got out of this mess if they were as inclined to fix cup draws as a lot seem to believe.

[Keith_M]

I agree - the carnage things is unlikely (though there must be a higher chance of smaller scale incidents with pissed fans from the first game still in town, at stations etc). However the main problem is that the fans of the two teams not from Glasgow are being massively discouraged from attending. In my case I have to travel from about 60 miles away and there are no public transport options to get me back that night even if the game finished in normal time. I'm not keen on night driving (getting on a bit) and in any case would have taken my daughter with me and she has school the next day. Therefore I wont be going and neither will she - must be many more in the same boat. And as for Aberdeen fans having to get there at 12.30 simply ridiculous. I guess they are on first because that gives poor old Celtic a bit longer to recover from their European trip.....never mind that many of Aberdeen's fans will now not attend.


:agree:


I think it's ridiculous scheduling with not a thought given to travelling Hearts or Aberdeen Fans (Aberdeen having the worst of it, in this instance, as there are no trains they can use that morning to get to the game).

I'm not convinced there will be large scale disturbances, due to the time between the games, but the timing of the matches is utterly stupid.

[Ozyhibby]

It's time to get out of this small minded mindset where it's only happening to Hearts & Aberdeen, it could well have been us involved and next time it could be and we will get shafted with a stupid kick off.

I would hate to be in the situation many Hearts fans are in where they won't be able to take their kids to the semi final or in some cases even let them watch the game on tv due to the stupid kick off time (I wouldn't be letting my 7 year old stay up till potentially half 10 on a school night to watch a match)

We all need to stick together against those that made this decision and those that benefit from this and lots of other decisions (The two cheeks) over the years.

I agree 100%. The fact we can’t back other clubs when they are in the right is what allows the SFA to turn a blind eye (or worse) to Rangers cheating over ten years.


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[BlackSheep]

:agree:


I think it's ridiculous scheduling with not a thought given to travelling Hearts or Aberdeen Fans (Aberdeen having the worst of it, in this instance, as there are no trains they can use that morning to get to the game).

I'm not convinced there will be large scale disturbances, due to the time between the games, but the timing of the matches is utterly stupid.

Really...?

So Rangers fans drinking post match around Hampden will not bump into Celtic fans drinking pre match around Hampden? Seem extremely unlikely that these fixtures will go off without a hitch in my and in many others' opinions.

[Ozyhibby]

I hope it's as crap and awkward as possible for Hearts and their deluded supporters. I hope it's pishing down too.

Neil Doncaster is counting on fans like you, it’s what keeps him in a job.


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[Danderhall Hibs]

Neil Doncaster is counting on fans like you, it’s what keeps him in a job.


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It’s the clubs that keep him in a job isn’t it?

[bringbackbenny]

Really...?

So Rangers fans drinking post match around Hampden will not bump into Celtic fans drinking pre match around Hampden? Seem extremely unlikely that these fixtures will go off without a hitch in my and in many others' opinions.

iirc Hampden always a nightmare to find anywhere decent for a pre match pint. I think the old firm fans will stick to there usual boozers before and after just like any other OF game whether at Hampden or not. Yes there will be the usual pockets of trouble (I accept maybe slightly more with the 2 games in 1 day) but these predictions of massive and unprecedented social disturbances/riots on the day are way over the score.

[Diclonius]

The SFA/SPFL stramroller the rest of Scottish football to accomodate the OF whenever possible yet again but haw haw haw it's happening to the Hertz so I don't give a ****, haw haw haw.

Nah, not for me. Doesn't matter who it is, this is a scandalous decision. I want Hearts to suffer pain and misery throughout their footballing existence but getting shafted for the OF is something that repeatedly happens to all of us and is therefore something we should fight as a collective.

[Albanian Hibs]

F T Hearts

Well said.

[Ozyhibby]

It’s the clubs that keep him in a job isn’t it?

Yip and as long as we are not kicking up a stink the clubs will just carry on.
The fans have the power to change things but unless we learn to speak with one voice then nothing will change.
This one is a no brainer, there are very few fans out there that think 7.45pm on a Sunday is a good time for a semi final. All clubs should be making their opinions known on this.
Doncaster knows though that it will just be Hearts and Aberdeen then he will ignore them and move on.
It would be refreshing to hear from clubs not directly affected by this nonsense in support.


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[Danderhall Hibs]

Yip and as long as we are not kicking up a stink the clubs will just carry on.
The fans have the power to change things but unless we learn to speak with one voice then nothing will change.
This one is a no brainer, there are very few fans out there that think 7.45pm on a Sunday is a good time for a semi final. All clubs should be making their opinions known on this.
Doncaster knows though that it will just be Hearts and Aberdeen then he will ignore them and move on.
It would be refreshing to hear from clubs not directly affected by this nonsense in support.


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The clubs are complaining though and if he’s made a decision without discussing with them they have the power to get rid of him.

[Billy Whizz]

Yip and as long as we are not kicking up a stink the clubs will just carry on.
The fans have the power to change things but unless we learn to speak with one voice then nothing will change.
This one is a no brainer, there are very few fans out there that think 7.45pm on a Sunday is a good time for a semi final. All clubs should be making their opinions known on this.
Doncaster knows though that it will just be Hearts and Aberdeen then he will ignore them and move on.
It would be refreshing to hear from clubs not directly affected by this nonsense in support.


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When do you think the games should have been played, bearing in mind they are getting played on the dates that were put aside. Also unfortunate for SPFL that both Glasgow clubs are in Europe the Thursday before

[weecounty hibby]

We have a "neutral" national stadium where the two ends are named after two clubs who come from city that the stadium is in! Did anyone really believe that any of these two games would be moved away from the OFs second stadium. Never ever going to happen just as the full time move to Murrayfield was never ever going to happen. The decision to play both on the same day takes the Trumpton town council that is those governing Scottish football to a whole new level of stupidity and incompetence

[eastcoasthibby]

This is a response to the Hampden v Murrayfield debate ...now they need to use the place as much as possible to get the cash coming in ...regardless of the massive potential for real crowd problems !
Doncaster and SEA idiots at their best,it's just one awful decision after another from that lot, I wonder if they would be provide some reasoning for this decision !!
Oops forget they are accountable to know one !!

[Ozyhibby]

When do you think the games should have been played, bearing in mind they are getting played on the dates that were put aside. Also unfortunate for SPFL that both Glasgow clubs are in Europe the Thursday before

Why not play it the following Saturday and switched around the Celtic v Hearts league fixture?


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[basehibby]

Let's not have anyone hurt, especially innocent fans.

Absolutely right - amidst all this madness someone is almost bound to throw a television out the window on top of a passing baby :bsod::eek::eek::eek:

[Billy Whizz]

Why not play it the following Saturday and switched around the Celtic v Hearts league fixture?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Maybe because there’s already a TV game on that lunchtime?

Seems a sensible idea that they must have considered

[Ozyhibby]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180928/3a56e9e1393b5b109b7fa28b237ca7ce.png


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[O'Rourke3]

IS this the same eejits that kept his team in the competition?

[Moulin Yarns]

Maybe because there’s already a TV game on that lunchtime?

Seems a sensible idea that they must have considered

Kilmarnock v Aberdeen at, yes you've guessed it, 12:15. So put the Celtc v Hearts game on at 3. But why not have 2 games on telly at the same time, the Wednesday before has Dundee v Celtc and Hearts v Hibs both on BT Sport at 7:45

[Bostonhibby]

Neil Doncaster is counting on fans like you, it’s what keeps him in a job.


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkNormally I agree with you, but it's way way past the point where they are bothered about what the rest of us think.



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[basehibby]

When do you think the games should have been played, bearing in mind they are getting played on the dates that were put aside. Also unfortunate for SPFL that both Glasgow clubs are in Europe the Thursday before

Simple - tell the ****tards in charge of Hampden to wind their stupid ignorant necks in. The SFA may have made a "decision" to buy Hampden but nothing has been signed from what I know. So tell them - be reasonable or risk losing everything. If they had any bollocks and/or really gave a tuppeny toss for non-OF football supporters in Scotland then that's exactly what would have happened instead of having up to 50,000 travelling supporters held to ransome by a bunch of "amatuers" out to make a fast buck out of their misfortune.

[Billy Whizz]

Kilmarnock v Aberdeen at, yes you've guessed it, 12:15. So put the Celtc v Hearts game on at 3. But why not have 2 games on telly at the same time, the Wednesday before has Dundee v Celtc and Hearts v Hibs both on BT Sport at 7:45

It’s actually St Mirren v Rangers that’s on that day, 12.15ko and on Sky. Don’t think you can show a live game at 3pm on a Saturday anyway

[Moulin Yarns]

It’s actually St Mirren v Rangers that’s on that day, 12.15ko and on Sky. Don’t think you can show a live game at 3pm on a Saturday anyway

Sorry, I was thinking it was the Sunday, but the TV still dictates Dons fans will struggle getting to Kilmarnock on the Sunday for a 12:15 kick off.

[The Modfather]

I agree 100%. The fact we can’t back other clubs when they are in the right is what allows the SFA to turn a blind eye (or worse) to Rangers cheating over ten years.


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Are the fan rep roles still in existence? If so is this something they could pick up for us to get Hibs’ thoughts on this?

[Since90+2]

Are the fan rep roles still in existence? If so is this something they could pick up for us to get Hibs’ thoughts on this?

I doubt the fans reps will be getting involved with something that doesn't involve us.

[Ozyhibby]

I doubt the fans reps will be getting involved with something that doesn't involve us.

Or anything else for that matter.[emoji23]


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[jacomo]

Not really the point thought mate is it? In the overall scheme of Scottish football this is a farce. Can’t believe I’m saying this but good on Levein for speaking out and I agree with him. Even worse for Aberdeen

Even though it’s hearts it’s still a disgrace and doesn’t say much fro
Scottish football as a whole. If it was us we’d be fuming too


Yeah fair play Craig Levein. He is absolutely raging and has a good point.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/45679298

[jacomo]

I doubt the fans reps will be getting involved with something that doesn't involve us.


It might not affect us this time, but it might in future.

I think we should get involved. Solidarity with our fellow fans and all that.

Levein made another fair point - Hearts will be expecting a pay day from the semi final (as they are entitled to do so) yet it’s likely fewer fans will buy tickets due to the scheduling.

How does that help clubs close the gap to the ugly sisters?

[hibsfan7]

i do not know what levein is moaning about hearts should have been kicked out the cup for playing an illegable player



:flag::flag::flag::flag::flag::flag::flag:

[Since90+2]

It might not affect us this time, but it might in future.

I think we should get involved. Solidarity with our fellow fans and all that.

Levein made another fair point - Hearts will be expecting a pay day from the semi final (as they are entitled to do so) yet it’s likely fewer fans will buy tickets due to the scheduling.

How does that help clubs close the gap to the ugly sisters?

It's a mute point anyway. I'd say the chances of Hibs getting involved in it are zero.

[lapsedhibee]

Shades of Rangers v Hibs in the League Cup semi-final 2004.
This phrase should never be allowed.

[Joe6-2]

Only the lunatics that run the game in Scotland could come up with this!

[G B Young]

They should just have kept the League Cup format as it was. Straight midweek knockout competition up to the semi-finals (possibly re-introducing the two-legged semi-final so that each club gets a home tie) and then the final at a weekend.

[Since90+2]

They should just have kept the League Cup format as it was. Straight midweek knockout competition up to the semi-finals (possibly re-introducing the two-legged semi-final so that each club gets a home tie) and then the final at a weekend.

I actually prefer the new setup. It adds meaning to pre season games and semi finals should always be played at a weekend. They've made a right arse of it with these games though.

[O'Rourke3]

Actually it's Celtic's fault. They should have been in the CL and by failing to do so now means we have a situation where the semis are played in the same ground same day. another nail in the Lawell coffin methinks.

[bawheid]

This phrase should never be allowed.

I did proof read it and think about changing it. Apologies.

Also noticed that I used the term ‘Rangers’ without prefixing with ‘the old’ or ‘the new’. Sacked.

[Lancs Harp]

I think the SFA just gave up interest once Hibs got knocked out. Might as well just cancel this seasons tournament and just move on to next season. Bye Hibs to the semi final stage.

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

i do not know what levein is moaning about hearts should have been kicked out the cup for playing an illegable player



:flag::flag::flag::flag::flag::flag::flag:

Forgot about that! :grr:

[Tinribs]

Much prefer elder scrolls.

WoW man myself, since TBC 😀

[hibeerealist]

Simple - tell the ****tards in charge of Hampden to wind their stupid ignorant necks in. The SFA may have made a "decision" to buy Hampden but nothing has been signed from what I know. So tell them - be reasonable or risk losing everything. If they had any bollocks and/or really gave a tuppeny toss for non-OF football supporters in Scotland then that's exactly what would have happened instead of having up to 50,000 travelling supporters held to ransome by a bunch of "amatuers" out to make a fast buck out of their misfortune.

i agree 100% they are a bunch of amateurs however we need to get away from the “only the old firm supporters are happy”. Fact - Celtic will have more supporters from outside of Glasgow attending this semi than hertz would take to the game so let’s put it in perspective.

it is not only hertz and Aberdeen supporters put out here.

hertz would probably have got 12-15 k travelling if it were the 12 noon kick off, the 7.45 pm will result in 10k or maybe less. In order to cover up the fact that 390,000 of their supporters are unwilling/unlikely to attend Levein (and no doubt the jornos who rely on the gorgay drivel) has started the “cover story” we have advised our supporters NOT to attend, what a load a s h I t e.

This is no different to playing semis on Tuesday or Wednesday nights through there, would they advise their fandans the same way if it were on one of these nights, no I think not.

The situation with both games in Glasgow on the same day is not ideal however if Police Scotland insist they can manage it then it is only down to the fans who are serious about going, given it is the wee cup Levein is at it having us believe 25,000 hertz fandans would attend.

[Callum_62]

https://twitter.com/scotlandsky/status/1045718130465673216?s=21

[emoji23]


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[DH1875]

iirc Hampden always a nightmare to find anywhere decent for a pre match pint. I think the old firm fans will stick to there usual boozers before and after just like any other OF game whether at Hampden or not. Yes there will be the usual pockets of trouble (I accept maybe slightly more with the 2 games in 1 day) but these predictions of massive and unprecedented social disturbances/riots on the day are way over the score.

The celtic fans drink around central station. There's 5/6 bars that are full of them on match days and I presume they'll be full by the time the rangers fans get back into central from Hampden, especially if their game goes to extra time or penalties. If the game does go to extra time I genuinely can't see how you keep all the fans apart. When we play at Hampden in an early kick off I like to spend a couple of hours in the pubs after the game. If we play in a late kick off I like to spend a couple of hours in the pub before the game. I presume I'm not the only one so......where do all fans go?

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Or anything else for that matter.[emoji23]


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As Bjork says "Its all gone quiet"!

[One Day Soon]

Has anyone ever seen the ****wits responsible for this decision in the same room as the UK Brexit negotiating team?

[PatHead]

Hope it is carnage and the experiment is never repeated again.

[jacomo]

https://twitter.com/scotlandsky/status/1045718130465673216?s=21

[emoji23]


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Tacit admission that the Rangers fans can’t be trusted with an evening kick off at Hampden. A full day of goading would be provocative for them I presume.

[PatHead]

Tacit admission that the Rangers fans can’t be trusted with an evening kick off at Hampden. A full day of goading would be provocative for them I presume.

And what about the goading after the match?

[JK Rolling]

The easiest solution would have been for them to be drawn together and Hearts v Sheep on Saturday is I think what is meant.

That's not necessarily "looking after the OF" right enough. But it's how they would have got out of this mess if they were as inclined to fix cup draws as a lot seem to believe.


I appreciate your reply Dan and you're spot on when you say the OF drawn together would've solved the problem for the beaks.

My point however, was that the OF would prefer to avoid each other until the final. Equally so, all the other teams in the competition would like the OF to be drawn together as early as poss in order that there's potentially an easier route to the final in that only one of the OF would then need to be overcome on route to winning the trophy.

If I'm really honest I fully support Aberdeen and Hearts in their complaint. The OF have forever been the recipients of every possible advantage and this will never change.

I have OF supporting friends and the thing they come away with that annoys me most is when they say that we, and by that I mean any non OF team supporters, shouldn't get 50% of the available tickets for Hampden as invariably we can't sell them. It's far easier to sell ALL your tickets when the vast majority of your supporters are travelling next to no distance to a game and as such incur minimal travel expenses and also minimum inconvenience. It is with this in mind that, IMO, 'we' could easily be the next team to be shafted due to the incompetence of one of football's governing bodies therefore I fully agree with the perceived 'moans' from Aberdeen and Hearts.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

No sympathy at All, just getting the excuses in early ahead of poor ticket sales. Of course it's a novelty both being same day, but nobody is shocked by the KO times. If it's too much effort, and such a "disgrace" etc, they can stay at home and watch it on TV and give us peace.

[Pete]

Levein is 100% correct here.

There might be a certain side to him where he likes to wind people up a bit but there are also rare times where he just tells it how it is.

This is very similar to an interview he did at Ibrox while he was manager of Dundee United. No nonsense and calling out the Glasgow based institutions for what they are.

Hope it’s an Aberdeen Hearts final just to piss them off.

[IGRIGI]

Levein is 100% correct here.

There might be a certain side to him where he likes to wind people up a bit but there are also rare times where he just tells it how it is.

This is very similar to an interview he did at Ibrox while he was manager of Dundee United. No nonsense and calling out the Glasgow based institutions for what they are.

Hope it’s an Aberdeen Hearts final just to piss them off.

Boak inducing reading a Levein love-in such as that, and wishing Hearts get to the final with a huge chance of winning a domestic cup?

Christ almighty..

[weecounty hibby]

Levein is 100% correct here.

There might be a certain side to him where he likes to wind people up a bit but there are also rare times where he just tells it how it is.

This is very similar to an interview he did at Ibrox while he was manager of Dundee United. No nonsense and calling out the Glasgow based institutions for what they are.

Hope it’s an Aberdeen Hearts final just to piss them off.

Levein is a knob and it is a ready made excuse when once again hearts don't sell out their allocation. And under no circumstances would I ever want hearts to reach a cup final, I hope celtic pump them silly

[Caversham Green]

https://twitter.com/scotlandsky/status/1045718130465673216?s=21

[emoji23]


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So the SPL accepted a contract that ensured that two specified clubs would get favourable treatment by always play semi-finals in their own city, regardless of circumstances. Why does that not surprise me.

[lapsedhibee]

Levein is 100% correct here.

There might be a certain side to him where he likes to wind people up a bit but there are also rare times where he just tells it how it is.

This is very similar to an interview he did at Ibrox while he was manager of Dundee United. No nonsense and calling out the Glasgow based institutions for what they are.

Hope it’s an Aberdeen Hearts final just to piss them off.

Here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlFpHriMd8A)

[bigwheel]

Levein is 100% correct here.

There might be a certain side to him where he likes to wind people up a bit but there are also rare times where he just tells it how it is.

This is very similar to an interview he did at Ibrox while he was manager of Dundee United. No nonsense and calling out the Glasgow based institutions for what they are.

Hope it’s an Aberdeen Hearts final just to piss them off.

I think this is a lot of noise about something just because it’s different...the Aberdeen game would have always been at that time...both games would have had that slot on sat & sun had the original schedule gone ahead

As for the other game...All teams are used to 1945 kick offs. Not sure what the big issue is with a Sunday night...

[neil7908]

It might not affect us this time, but it might in future.

I think we should get involved. Solidarity with our fellow fans and all that.

Levein made another fair point - Hearts will be expecting a pay day from the semi final (as they are entitled to do so) yet it’s likely fewer fans will buy tickets due to the scheduling.

How does that help clubs close the gap to the ugly sisters?

Exactly. I can't understand anyone gloating at this. When we're in the semi final next year presumably you'll be perfectly happy if we get a 7.45 Sunday night kick off? You'll be commending the SPFL for the wonderful job they have done and continue to do in our game?

This is a total joke of a situation and is just one of many, many examples of bias towards the Old Firm. Perhaps we shouldn't have been so mean to poor old Rangers when they had all that financial difficulties a few years ago?

This is squarely the fault of the idiots in charge of our game. If they've signed a contract that means this is the best/only situation possible then they failed woefully.

Ultimately though its a pattern of crappy TV deals, Glasgow centric, Old Firm favouritism and general incompetence that is slowly killing our game.

We can laugh now but Scottish football can sink even further and will continue to do so with the folk in charge.

And all clubs will suffer, ironically probably the Ugly Sisters as well.

[Carheenlea]

No sympathy at All, just getting the excuses in early ahead of poor ticket sales. Of course it's a novelty both being same day, but nobody is shocked by the KO times. If it's too much effort, and such a "disgrace" etc, they can stay at home and watch it on TV and give us peace.

:agree:

Most fans can make the kick off times of 12.00 and 19.30 at Hampden as they have done many times in the past and most fans can behave themselves in an acceptable manner and be in sight of other fans in a city centre without too much fuss, and a pitch can handle 120 minutes of football without too much trouble (I watched the All Ireland Hurling semi final at Croke Park where they played a minors semi final immediately before the main event)
I’m more annoyed we are not there.

[Sir David Gray]

Levein is 100% correct here.

There might be a certain side to him where he likes to wind people up a bit but there are also rare times where he just tells it how it is.

This is very similar to an interview he did at Ibrox while he was manager of Dundee United. No nonsense and calling out the Glasgow based institutions for what they are.

Hope it’s an Aberdeen Hearts final just to piss them off.

You hope Hearts get to a cup final? :confused:

[KeithTheHibby]

No statement from either of the old firm I notice.
As usual happy enough to cosy up in bed together when it suits them.

[SirDavidsNapper]

Levein is 100% correct here.

There might be a certain side to him where he likes to wind people up a bit but there are also rare times where he just tells it how it is.

This is very similar to an interview he did at Ibrox while he was manager of Dundee United. No nonsense and calling out the Glasgow based institutions for what they are.

Hope it’s an Aberdeen Hearts final just to piss them off.

I honestly hope Hearts get dismantled in the semi. Levein is and always will be a twat. He can ram his thoughts as far as im concerned. Hope travel is chaotic

[jacomo]

No statement from either of the old firm I notice.
As usual happy enough to cosy up in bed together when it suits them.


:agree:

[hibsbollah]

You hope Hearts get to a cup final? :confused:

Based on the alternatives on offer, I agree with him. I hate the 'old firm' duopoly and the bias behind it more than our traditional local ivalry with Hertz.

I always find it hard to choose a team I'd want to win when Hearts play Celtic anyway.

[jacomo]

I think this is a lot of noise about something just because it’s different...the Aberdeen game would have always been at that time...both games would have had that slot on sat & sun had the original schedule gone ahead

As for the other game...All teams are used to 1945 kick offs. Not sure what the big issue is with a Sunday night...


Really?

You can’t see an issue with games being scheduled so that fans can’t use public transport to get to or home from the game?

Or two matches at the same venue on the same day?

[bigwheel]

Really?

You can’t see an issue with games being scheduled so that fans can’t use public transport to get to or home from the game?

Or two matches at the same venue on the same day?

No really don’t ...think people are making a much bigger thing than it is ...

The two matches at the same place is quite innovative ..why not see it as a “super cup Sunday” event ??

There are 1230 and 1945 kickoffs in Glasgow regularly. Nothing different happening here. also it is 4 weeks away..plenty of time to arrange travel other than train...so no, I really don’t see it as a big thing. Could be viewed as an exciting thing..