Tag: football

Rangers row moves into extra time

The row over the behaviour of Rangers fans celebrating their Scottish Premiership title win and flouting coronavirus laws rumbled on today.

Before delivering the latest coronavirus figures, Deputy First Minister Mr Swinney said: “I have to address yesterday’s events in Glasgow.

“All of us recognise that winning the league was a special moment for Rangers Football Club – and before I say more I want to congratulate the club on their success and thank all those fans who celebrated at home, and who followed the rules. 

“But the behaviour of some fans has been an absolute disgrace, and has undoubtedly cast a shadow over what should have been a special day for the team.

“The success that we’ve have had in recent weeks in reducing case numbers is because so many people across Scotland have stuck to extremely tough rules, which are designed to prevent the spread of the virus between different households.

“To see so many people deliberately flouting these rules with no regard for the safety of others, is shameful. Events like yesterday risk spreading the virus.

“And they show no regard or respect at all for the millions of households across Scotland who have been sticking to the rules – who haven’t been able to meet up with friends and families, to fully celebrate birthdays and other milestones, or in some cases to attend funeral services of their loved ones.

“The Government and Police Scotland reminded Rangers of the need for the club to advice fans to adhere to the current restrictions in discussions on 26 February and 5 March. It is a matter of profound regret that that did not happen.   

“The Scottish Government will be making our extreme disappointment at the lack of leadership clear to the team management, and we will be speaking to all the authorities about what further assurance they can give to us ahead of future planned games.

“I also understand that many people have questions as to the preparation for and the nature of the Policing that took place yesterday – and why they did not prevent people from gathering.

“I understand the anger of those living and working in the city centre at what they saw, and at what took place.

“Policing of such occasions requires difficult operational judgements to be arrived at by Police Scotland.

“The Justice Secretary has spoken to the Chief Constable and to Rangers FC, and will be doing so again – to understand why the events of yesterday took place as they did; what actions are now being taken to identify those responsible; and what more can be done to try to ensure we do not see repeats of those scenes at upcoming events.“

Rangers issued the following statement at lunchtime:

‘DURING the last number of weeks, Rangers can confirm that we initiated open dialogue with key stakeholders in relation to the possibility of us achieving a historic 55th league title.

‘We have proactively engaged with our local MP, the Justice Minister, the Scottish Government, Police Scotland and the SPFL in relation to maintaining a cohesive message regarding public safety during the Covid-19 pandemic.

‘We understand the jubilance of our support across the world who recognise this has been a historic year for the club.

‘Nevertheless, it has been of great frustration for all football fans across the world that they have not been able to watch their team within stadiums, especially for the loyal Rangers season-ticket holders who have stood by this football club through thick and thin in the last decade.

‘We reiterate the message from our manager, Steven Gerrard, who highlighted that fans should adhere to government guidelines – stay safe, socially distance and look after each other in this difficult time.

‘We are aware there is the possibility of more, significant milestones within this season, and we will continue to proactively engage with key stakeholders to maintain a cohesive message in relation to government guidance at this present time.

‘We look forward to further open dialogue with the government, police, SPFL and other key stakeholders.’

Police Scotland rowed in with another statement this evening:

Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham said: “The behaviour which we saw at the weekend was disgraceful and I utterly condemn the individuals who chose to completely disregard the coronavirus regulations, putting both the wider community and our officers at risk.

“I also strongly condemn the lack of support from Rangers Football Club over the messages we repeatedly asked them to put out to persuade fans not to go out celebrating and encourage those who did gather in large numbers to return home.

“We’ve been planning for the conclusion of the football season for some time since the league was allowed to resume and the sport is in a very privileged position given the restrictions seen across the country for almost a year.

“It was very clear through the lack of messaging that Rangers did not take seriously their responsibilities in terms of seeking to persuade their fans to celebrate safely and responsibly.

“I commend the officers who delivered a policing operation which was entirely consistent with our approach throughout this pandemic to maintain public safety and minimise disorder, disruption and damage to property.

“They did this faced with considerable danger, all of which was completely unnecessary and avoidable.

“Where large numbers of people gather at an unplanned event such as this we use established crowd control measures to ensure we are keeping the public safe and manage those who are refusing to disperse.

“We will work with football clubs, local authorities and the Scottish Government to ensure we do everything we can to persuade people that none of these scenes can be repeated as the football season continues.”

We’ve not heard the last of this …

Rangers fans ignore restrictions to celebrate title win

Glasgow faces COVID spike as fans take to the streets

Rangers fans flouted COVID guidelines and partied into the night as they celebrated their first Premiership title win in ten years yesterday.

Their actions have been roundly condemned, however, and it remains to be seen whether action will be taken against the Ibrox club or even the SFA.

Glasgow police were criticised for their lack of action as hundreds of fans congregated at Ibrox stadium and in George Square minutes after Celtic failed to beat Dundee United and conceded the league title to their rivals.

A ‘small number’ of supporters were arrested, but Police Scotland’s performance will be the subject of much discussion today.

Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland, Divisional Commander for Greater Glasgow Division, made his final statement of the evening at 8:56pm as celebrations continued. He said: “We are continuing to police the ongoing gathering of football supporters in George Square today.

“Officers have continued to move to enforcement where appropriate with a number of further arrests and additional fixed penalty notices for breaches of the coronavirus restrictions, minor incidents of disorder and the use of pyrotechnic devices.

“We are now asking people to disperse and make their way home.  For those not in attendance, please do not make your way to Glasgow City Centre.

“People should consider the public health impact of this gathering. For more information on the latest coronavirus guidelines please visit the Scottish Government website.”

Police appeals went unheeded, as did First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s.

Ms Sturgeon said on Twitter: “I congratulate @RangersFC on the title win & recognise what a moment this is for fans.

“But gathering in crowds just now risks lives, and could delay exit from lockdown for everyone else. If those gathering care at all about the safety of others & the country, they will go home.” They didn’t.

Police Scotland issued an update at 9:30am this morning:

Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland, Divisional Commander for Greater Glasgow Division, said: “On Sunday, 7 March, 2021, a pre-planned policing operation was instigated after Rangers FC were confirmed as league champions.

“Despite the coronavirus regulations and the prohibition of gatherings, our officers were faced with a very difficult set of circumstances as many thousands of supporters gathered to celebrate across a number of different venues.

“Our priority was public safety and this included reducing the risk of disorder, road safety and effective crowd management among the complexities of a vociferous crowd. This included established crowd control measures to prevent serious disorder in multiple areas and protect the public.

“An appropriate policing response was in place throughout the day and officers continually engaged and encouraged compliance with coronavirus regulations.

“Over the course of the day a number of minor injuries were sustained by members of the public, some of which were as a result of intoxication.

“Where it was appropriate to do so officers moved to enforcement for a variety of offences including breaches of coronavirus regulations, acts of disorder, pyrotechnic use and a number of arrests for assaulting police officers and sectarian related breach of the peace.

“In total, 28 people were arrested and seven people were issued with fixed penalty notices or will be the subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

“I am grateful to our officers who showed great commitment and professionalism throughout the course of the day, many of whom put their own health at risk during a challenging set of circumstances.”

Only 35 fans to face punishment? Given the pictures we’ve all seen Police Scotland’s attitude appears incredibly tolerant and will infuriate many people who have stuck to the rules throughout.

The First Minister has already expressed her frustration with football following previous misdemeanors, and has said that the sport is on a yellow card. With growing public anger over fans’ reckless behaviour will she now consider taking action?

There will be many ‘sair heids’ in Govan this morning, but yesterday’s scenes have also presented Govan’s MSP with her own headache. The First Minister was expected to announce a loosening of restrictions tomorrow, but following Sunday’s scenes this could now be under reconsideration.

While the Scottish government has praised ‘everyone’ for obeying guidelines since they were introduced at start of the pandemic, it’s very clear that a sizeable minority have continued to ignore guidelines and even break the law throughout – be that ignoring soocial distancing by gathering at school gates, families flouting travel restriction rules or simply a refusal to wear face masks.

Few will forget the picures of a packed Portobello promenade, The Meadows teeming with people or crowds in Princes Street Gardens. And now this.

There have been more than 7400 COVID deaths in Scotland but it seems that some people will never learn.

While Rangers have made no official comment on the scenes in Glasgow, manager Steven Gerrard told rangers.co.uk: “It is very difficult to put into words right now. I’m on a real, emotional high and it has been a journey that is not finished.

“There is more to come and the next thing for me, when you win, it is always about what is next, and I am so proud of the players first and foremost – they are the most important people inside the club.

“But they are not as important as the supporters – they are what makes this club and it is for them and we have been down at times, really low at times, but this is an incredible high.

“It has been an incredible journey we have been on and we deserve it. I would just like to thank the board for the support they have given me – each and every one of them – and everyone who has given me the backing to go and do the job I needed to do and everyone connected to the club who is here now deserve to enjoy this.”

When Hibernian won The Scottish Cup in 2016 Rangers were quick to condemn Hibs fans for running on to the pitch to celebrate their first victory in the tournament for 114 years.

‘Rangers Football Club is shocked at the disgraceful behaviour of Hibs fans at full time’, the Ibrox club said in a statement rushed out after the game.

No such rush to condemn this time round, however. Silence in Govan.

It really is a ‘funny old game’ …

Sexual Abuse in Scottish Football: SFA issues ‘profound apology’

The board of the Scottish FA, having reviewed the final report of the Independent Review of Sexual Abuse in Scottish Football, wishes to reiterate its profound apology to those who have personal experience of sexual abuse in our national game.

Now that the final report has been published, we express our thanks to Martin Henry, the chair of the independent review, and his team, who for the past three years have dedicated themselves to this considerable and unprecedented undertaking.

They have produced a comprehensive review of non-recent sexual abuse in Scottish football, provided recommendations that the game is implementing at all levels to ensure a safer future for young footballers, and, crucially, have given survivors a voice that was previously denied to them.

The personal testimony provided by those survivors is a tribute to their courage and while the final report makes difficult reading it is only by learning lessons from the past that we can we truly commit to the highest standards of wellbeing and protection for young people involved in Scottish football.

Today is a day for reflecting on an incomprehensible period in Scottish football’s history, and for ensuring the collective voice of the survivors is heard.

Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive: “As Chief Executive of the Scottish FA I am deeply upset by the contents of the final report into sexual abuse in Scottish football and, in particular, by the deeply personal, traumatic experiences endured by young players who were abused by people in whom they and their families placed their trust.

“I reiterate my sincerest apology on behalf of Scottish football to all who have experienced abuse in our national game.

“The report also recognises the progress that the Scottish FA and its members have made to achieve the highest standards of wellbeing and protection for children and young people to play our national sport safely today.

“Since the board issued a directive in 2016 we can report that 80% of the original recommendations are either completed or in progress. The work is ongoing, overseen by the Independent Wellbeing and Protection Advisory Board and implemented through our Wellbeing and Protection department: themselves evidence of our commitment to the review and its recommendations.

“As the report also states, football provides a tremendous outlet for young people in Scotland and it is the responsibility of everyone involved in Scottish football to protect and cultivate that for future generations.”

The final report and appendices can be viewed here [https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/media/7516/independent-review-of-sexual-abuse-in-scottish-football-final-report.pdf].

Further information about the Scottish FA’s Wellbeing and Protection strategy can be found at https://www.scottishfa.co.uk/scottish-fa/wellbeing-protection/       

If you would like to speak to someone about your own experiences then you can contact:

Police Scotland on 101

NSPCC Helpline for people abused in football: 0800 023 2642

Scottish FA – childrenswellbeing@scottishfa.co.uk

Further information on support services can be found at:

 www.scottishfa.co.uk/scottish-fa/wellbeing-protection/adult-survivors-of-abuse/ 

Children 1st Chief Executive, Mary Glasgow.

In response to the publication of the Final Independent Report into non-recent sexual abuse in Scottish football, Mary Glasgow, Chief Executive Children 1st, which runs Safeguarding in Sport in partnership with sportscotland, said:

“The personal testimony of the men and boys in the report, who have shown incredible courage, demonstrates how needed this independent review has been. The abuse that young players have suffered in football is inexcusable and heart-breaking. By bravely speaking up they provided the catalyst for the review, and the changes that will come from it are thanks to them. We welcome the ongoing work the Scottish FA has carried out in light of the report’s recommendations and encourage them to continue their progress.

“The Scottish FA are showing that they are willing to listen and implement changes that ensure no more children suffer the experiences described in the report. We are pleased to see children and young people’s involvement in the process, such as the consultation with the Scottish Children’s Parliament.

“The voices of children and young people are crucial to developing improvements for their own wellbeing and safety, and also to change a culture where children can be frightened to speak up. Safeguarding in Sport, a partnership between Children 1st and sportscotland, has developed the Standards for Child Wellbeing and Protection in Sport, which state that children have a right to express their views and have their voice taken into account.

“We are keen to support the Scottish FA in their continued implementation of the recommendations, to create a culture in football where we can be sure that every child is safe to enjoy the huge benefits of participating in sport.

“Any volunteer or official looking for advice or support about a child can contact safeguardinginsport@children1st.org.uk, and our Children 1st Parentline service is here to support every family in Scotland on 08000 28 22 33 or online at https://www.children1st.org.uk/parentline”

Scottish Cup Final: This one’s for Marius – the pressure’s all on Celtic as Hearts aim for cup glory

Celtic and Heart of Midlothian are set to go head-to-head in a second consecutive William Hill Scottish Cup final as the 2019/20 competition draws to a long-awaited close.

In a festive first, the showpiece event at Hampden Park will play out in front of an empty stadium after a long, COVID hit delay.

For both sides, it is an opportunity to bring their supporters some Christmas joy, with the fixture set to be watched through television screens this afternoon.

Celtic are aiming for an historic day in Glasgow following their treble success three years on the bounce. After overcoming Aberdeen last month by two goals to nil, the current holders have a fourth successive treble in their sights.

Heart of Midlothian make their way to Hampden Park from the Capital in search of another Scottish Cup success, which would be their first since 2012. The Edinburgh outfit defeated their city rivals Hibernian in the semi-final in dramatic fashion, edging the encounter 2-1 after extra time.

Celtic manager Neil Lennon is aiming for an eighth victory in a Scottish Cup final, having lifted the trophy four times as a player and three as a manager.

The Hoops boss insists all of his players are in contention for a spot in his starting eleven at the weekend as his side look to build on their upturn in form.  

He said: “As regards team selection, there will be no sentimentality involved in my thinking behind that with my backroom team.

“It is a cup final, a game we want to win. Everyone is in contention and I have to pick the best team for the occasion and to help us win another trophy.”

For Robbie Neilson, Sunday presents an opportunity for the Hearts manager to taste success for the second time in the Scottish Cup, following a memorable day in 2006 as a player.

The Jambo’s boss could make history as the first man to lift the trophy as both a player and manager for the club, but insists the preparations have remained the same for his team.

He said: “It’s a bit surreal. The Scottish Cup final is usually the climax of the season in the sunshine. We’re just glad to be there and looking forward to it. Hopefully, it’s a decent Christmas present for the fans.

“The build-up is still the same whether it’s now or the end of the season. You still have a good week’s training leading into it.”

Neil Lennon said Celtic are on the brink of a monumental achievement if they can win the Scottish Cup final this afternoon but said his side face a difficult game against a very good Hearts side.

Celtic would secure their 12th consecutive trophy if they were to defeat Hearts in Sunday’s final. Victory also see Celtic clinch an incredible quadruple Treble.

Manager Neil Lennon said such an achievement would be remarkable and added it would have a knock-on effect for his side in the upcoming league games.

“We’re looking forward to it,” he said. “It’s a great occasion despite there not being any supporters there but we know the gravity of what lies ahead of us. It’s a remarkable situation to find ourselves in and hopefully one we can make the best of an overcome.

“It’s about the team and what they can achieve. I’m only as good as them. ‘We’re one step away from making history. I think it’s monumental and I don’t think we’ll see it again in our lifetime.

“Psychologically it would be good for us. Twelve trophies in a row would be something you’d never see again and I think it would give the players a massive shot in the arm.”

Today’s final sees Celtic face Hearts for the second consecutive time in the Scottish Cup final. The Hoops claimed a 2-1 win against Hearts in the 2018/19 final but Neil Lennon warned that experience will only make Hearts a more dangerous side this weekend.

“I have to be warry in not talking us up all the time,” said the Celtic boss. “We have a very good team to play against who’ll be highly motivated themselves. We won the last cup final against them and some of their players are still there so I’m sure they’ll want to avenge that.

“They’re packed full of Premiership quality players. We know Craig very well, he was an outstanding servant here and an outstanding goalkeeper. We’re under no illusions coming into this, it’s not a case of us turning up and winning the game.

“Psychologically, Hearts could be in a better place for this final. They had a great win in the semi-final against a very good Hibs team. They showed their metal and that they can compete with some of the best teams in the Premiership. Psychologically, they’re coming into the game with confidence and that’s off the back of winning games.”

Hearts will honour the memory of Marius Zaliukas when the team takes to the field in this Sunday’s Scottish Cup Final against Celtic at Hampden.

Every player will wear the number 26 on the front of their shorts in honour of our legendary Scottish Cup winning captain.

Everyone associated with the club was shocked and saddened to learn of Marius’ passing in October. Adored by the maroon faithful, the Lithuanian defender is a Hearts legend in every sense of the word and the men in maroon look forward to paying tribute to him this afternoon.

Scotland’s ‘COVID Cup Final’ kicks of at 2.15pm. It’s live on BBC Scotland.

SFA recognises Gorgie Road restaurant with National Award

The national winners of the annual Scottish FA & McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards have been revealed, with the Gorgie Road restaurant in Edinburgh being crowned the winner of the 2020 Football Restaurant of the Year award.

The awards celebrate the efforts of grassroots football volunteers across Scotland who make a difference and go the extra mile to support their local communities.

Launched in March this year, the public response has been extremely strong, despite the challenging circumstances, with the Community Projects category receiving over 351% more votes this year compared to 2019. The awards feature a wide mix of categories which reflect the huge range of roles that volunteers play.

McDonald’s Gorgie Road, owned and operated by local franchisee Graham Angus (pictured above), joins a long list of inspirational grassroots football heroes who have been recognised by the awards programme.

Graham has been involved in the local grassroots community for a number of years, and the team at McDonald’s Gorgie Road support local football at Salvesen FC, as well as developing an innovative partnership by working with the club’s older players looking for a route back into employment.

The Gorgie Road restaurant was judged alongside the other regional winners from the Football Restaurant of the Year 2020 category and will be presented with their award at a ceremony at a later date.

Graham, who with his team will continue to support grassroots football in the Edinburgh area, added: “It’s an honour to be named Football Restaurant of the Year at the awards this year.

“I’m so proud of the efforts my team have put in to support grassroots football. Over the years our relationship with football teams have thrived. We’ve worked hard to form strong relationships with clubs like Salvesen FC, so we can help provide them with much-needed support to keep grassroots football prosper in the area.”

McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador Kenny Dalglish said: “It’s been a really difficult year for the whole country, but I’m very pleased that we’re able to recognise and celebrate the volunteers who go above and beyond to have a positive impact on their local communities.

“The tireless work of local heroes like Graham Angus and his team at Gorgie Road is what keeps the game going. Graham and his team should be extremely proud of his achievements and grassroots football in Scotland is in a much better place with them being a part of it.”

The Scottish FA & McDonald’s Grassroots Football Awards are part of McDonald’s ongoing Community Partnership with the Scottish FA.

To find out more about McDonald’s partnership visit:

http://www.mcdonalds.co.uk/funfootball 

or on Twitter @FunFootballUK.

Coaching legend ‘Parky’ wins lifetime achievement award

‘One of the best’ – Scottish coaching legend Donald Park wins lifetime achievement award


Donald Park, affectionately known as ‘Parky’, has been announced as the winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s UK Coaching Awards, which took place virtually on Thursday (3 December).

The award was officially presented to the former Scotland Under-19s coach by Scottish FA Head of Coach Education and Development Greig Patterson on the evening of the prestigious event, to recognise his achievements through a lifetime dedicated to coaching. 

Originally from Lochaber in the Highlands, Parky’s impact on Scottish football has stretched far and wide. Across his career, which spans five decades, he has been a player, coach, manager, coach educator, volunteer and member of staff with the Scottish FA. His reach has largely included working with young Scottish talent at grassroots clubs, professional clubs and at international level. 


Pro-footballer to full-time coach

As a player, he is best remembered for his time at Patrick Thistle and two spells at Hearts. His coaching career saw him take up posts at Meadowbank Thistle, Arbroath, Hibs, Inverness Caledonian Thistle – where as assistant manager, working under John Robertson, he helped the team win the Scottish First Division and promotion to the Scottish Premier League – and finally, as head coach of the Scotland Under-19s.

So deep was Parky’s commitment to nurturing the footballing talent of young people across Scotland, he spent a lot of his time travelling back north to the Highlands, even whilst based at Hampden Park in Glasgow, to share his wisdom with youth players.

He was also Head of Coach Education at the Scottish FA for eight years, where he worked to develop and broaden coaching opportunities, and used his influence to write, design and deliver coach learning to thousands of coaches. Parky was the driving force behind a bespoke UEFA B Licence for Scotland’s women’s team players, helping several start their coaching journey.

Having retired from his head coaching role with the Scottish FA in 2018, he returned to Hearts to support the youth coaches at the club’s academy as a coach mentor.

Parky continues to give back to the part of the game he loves most: grassroots football. He can be found as a volunteer at his local club, Spartans in Edinburgh, where he currently works with their Under-13s.

“He gave me confidence” 

Acknowledging the countless hours and infectious enthusiasm he continues to give to the sport he loves, Celtic FC captain Scott Brown said that Parky had shown him the true meaning of being a professional footballer.

“He gave me confidence as a young kid to push myself in every aspect and to truly understand the game. He came in every day with a smile on his face and he always wanted the best for all the lads that came into Hibernian; he had so much time for everyone.”

Former Hibs, Rangers, Celtic, Wolves, Derby, Cardiff and Scotland striker Kenny Miller called Parky “one of the best” he’d ever worked with and former Hibs and Rangers midfielder Kevin Thomson said that he was one of his favourite coaches throughout his whole career. 

“As a young player, he helped guide me on the right values you need not only as a player but as a person.

“His demand of the highest standards every day are the same that I demand of my players now as a coach at Rangers. His infectious personality and love of the game can’t help but make you gravitate towards him.”

Donald Park, said: “If I’m being completely honest, it’s an absolute shock to receive this award. To be presented with this award for doing something that I’ve loved for so long, and been very lucky to be involved in, is very humbling. 

“It’s very nice to hear from players and coaches I’ve worked with during my career and what they have to say about me. I’ve been lucky to have worked with so many talented people and seeing some familiar faces when I received the award meant a lot to me.”

Scottish FA Head of Coach Education and Development Greig Paterson, said:
“If you’re involved in the game of football at any level in Scotland, then you more than likely know Parky.

“He is renowned for the attention to detail he imparts and he has an incredible ability to have everyone eating out of the palms of his hands during his sessions – whether its grassroots players, senior professionals or coaches undertaking a coach education course. 

“His enthusiasm is absolutely infectious and his love for coach education was clear for all to see. I was delighted to be able to come back to the Scottish FA and work closely with Parky, getting to know him better during the three-year period we had before he moved on. There’s not a day that goes by without me reminding myself that I need to live up to the legacy he has left for the coaching workforce in Scotland and beyond.  

“It is testament to the man himself that so many people within the game speak so highly of him. It’s a thoroughly deserved award.”

sportscotland’s CEO Stewart Harris, said: “Every year across Scotland, thousands of dedicated sporting enthusiasts devote their time, knowledge and skills to afford others the chance to take part in sport, and experience all the benefits that come with sport participation. 

“People like Donald are the bedrock of Scottish sport and I’d like to congratulate him for an incredible career that has largely been dedicated to helping others progress.”

UK Coaching’s CEO Mark Gannon, said: “We would like to add our own salute to the applause and congratulations that Donald richly deserves for his efforts in changing people’s lives across 50 years of coaching. 

“Great coaching is about guiding, support and inspiring people to fulfil their aspirations. It is obvious from Donald’s career that he took that responsibility extremely seriously, not only did he help mould great Scottish footballers, he nurtured them to be confident, independent and capable women, men, boys and girls. Well done once again on your fine achievement Donald.”

The UK Coaching Awards showcases the diverse work of coaches, projects and organisations, making a huge difference to the health and happiness of the nation – especially, against the backdrop of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. 

Find out more about the awards and this year’s winners by heading to ukcoaching.org/coachingawards.

Douglas Ross: stump up the cash to save football clubs

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross has proposed a new Fans Fighting Fund to help keep football clubs afloat.

Douglas, who is also an assistant referee, is calling for the Scottish Government to match the money that fans raise to save their local teams, as many clubs warn that they will struggle to get through the next few months without funding support.

On Friday, Douglas held a discussion with 24 clubs across each of Scotland’s top divisions to hear about their concerns.

Douglas has previously held similar Roundtable Scotland events with teaching unions, drug recovery organisations and business groups.

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross said: “On Friday, I spoke with representatives of 24 clubs across Scotland to hear about the perilous state of the game. Clubs told me that they’re on the brink without paying punters in the stadium.

“I’ve taken away a range of issues from the meeting that I want to look at further but this initial suggestion could provide some immediate help.  

“I’m proposing that we help clubs out, especially those smaller clubs embedded in communities, with a Fans Fighting Fund. I’d like to see the government commit to matching what fans raise to keep their clubs alive.

“The money from the UK Government is there. The SNP received £97 million to protect culture venues from the impact of Covid and haven’t spent at least £10 million of it. And we all know in Scotland that football is our culture, even more than comedy clubs or theatres.

“As long as clubs commit to paying the living wage and those who can chip in too, this is a fair deal to support football.”

 Lothian MSP Miles Briggs said: “Many clubs throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians are in real financial difficulty without any income from supporters.

“This initial proposal would go along way in keeping clubs afloat during what is going to be a very challenging season.

“SNP Ministers must take this proposal seriously to ensure that clubs throughout the region have a fighting change of making it to next season.”

Fans back at the fitba this Saturday

Two test events to be played in front of home supporters

Two pilot Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) matches are to take place in front of 300 home supporters following extensive discussions involving Ministers and the football authorities.

The games – Aberdeen v Kilmarnock and Ross County v Celtic – on Saturday 12 September, have been approved after each of the home teams submitted detailed operational plans for the safe admission of fans.

Both home clubs have undertaken to ensure supporters attending will be local to their areas to keep travel to a minimum.

Proposed pilot events involving Rangers and St Mirren will not go ahead following the extension of coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions in the west of Scotland.

Each of the home clubs will also provide a post-match report on operational delivery to inform guidance for future pilots.  No date has been confirmed for the general resumption of stadia events outlined in the Scottish Government Route Map out of the COVID-19 crisis.

Sports Minister Joe FitzPatrick said: “No final decision has yet been taken regarding the general resumption of stadia events with restricted numbers of spectators and nothing should be taken for granted at this stage.

“However, the Scottish Government has agreed that the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) can hold two pilot events, each with 300 home supporters only, on 12 September.

“A lot of work has gone on behind the scenes in recent months to create the protocols and testing regimes to allow top-level professional sport in Scotland to resume, and this arrangement follows extensive discussions with the Scottish FA, SPFL and clubs about public safety – particularly in relation to physical distancing and hygiene measures.

“The football authorities and the clubs involved have also been able to review and learn from the pilot event staged by Scottish Rugby on 28 August and we are confident there will be strict protocols in place at these two initial pilot football events.

“We are keeping all pilot events under close review.”

SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster said: “The Joint Response Group (JRG) is pleased to have received confirmation of pilot events at two Scottish Premiership fixtures on 12 September and I would like to thank the respective home clubs – and indeed all 12 Premiership clubs – for the comprehensive Return to Supporting plans.

“We look forward to building on the successful supporter rugby pilot at BT Murrayfield and I know that clubs take the responsibility for the safe return of supporters seriously. This is another significant step forward for Scottish football and I reiterate the importance of fans to our national game.

“The JRG will continue to liaise with all clubs, especially the home clubs, in the coming week to ensure all protocols and guidance are adhered to and that fans can look forward to a phased return to supporting their respective teams.”

The First Minister will make a full statement on Thursday (10 September) with a further update on COVID-19, including stadia events, as set out in the revised Scottish Government COVID-19 route map published on 20 August 2020.

Craigroyston FC seeks volunteers

Helping the local community

Committee members and volunteers required

As many people will know there’s been a background staff changeover for the season ahead with a new chairman, committee and management team taking over the running of the club.

While we are moving in the right direction we would like to extend an opportunity for anyone interested to come on board as a committee member or match day volunteer.

We have a fantastic set up down at St Marks Park and would like to continue the fantastic work that the previous committee have done in running the club. We are effectively starting from scratch so we are very keen to add to our committee and volunteers as we look to build for the next 44 years.

As a committee member, you will play a major part in how the club moves forward. As part of the committee you will be involved in the general running of the club and be involved in fundraising etc. There will be regular committee meetings to discuss new ideas, and general club matters.

As a volunteer you will be involved on home match days helping with the various jobs before, during and after matches. If you are interested, we will find a job for you to help with, there’s something for everybody! From setting up goals and barriers to serving teas and coffee, to taking in gate money or hanging up kits.

Anyone interested please message us directly on our Facebook page and we can have an informal chat over the phone or a cup of tea down the club. Please do not be put off if you’ve never been involved with a club before, If you have good ideas then we would love to hear from you.

Clubs at our level rely on volunteers, they are the people that make the club run, without you we simply couldn’t do it.

Craigroyston FC committee

Pink boots top the scoring tables

Forget the Golden Boot … PINK football boots have scored the most Premier League goals this season, a new study has revealed.

A new study has looked at every single premier league goal scored this season, revealing that players with PINK football boots have scored the most goals by quite a distance.

Now the 2019/20 premier league season has drawn to a close, new research from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk has looked at every single goal scored and evaluated the data by which football boot performed the best.

Modern football boots come in a range of elaborate colours, to help players stand out and to help market the football boot, but this research shows that pink is the winner this season, as it dominates the goal scoring charts.

Perhaps surprisingly, football boots with pink on them scored a whopping 626 goals this season, 17 times more than black football boots, which only scored 36.

The English Premier League top goalscorer, Jamie Vardy, enjoyed a golden boot season wearing white and pink Adidas and scoring 23 goals through the campaign.

Other notable goalscorers who were on top form throughout the season – and wearing pink football boots – were Danny Ings, Mo Salah and Marcus Rashford.

The research has also revealed that whilst an Adidas football boot scored the most individual goals, the real winner was Nike whose boots outscored Adidas by a whopping 223 goals.

Specifically, the study revealed that the best performing football boot that scored the most goals was the Nike Mercurial Vapor XIII Elite, scoring 191 goals this season.

The data also shows that whilst tried and tested brands like Nike and Adidas stay prominent, Puma, New Balance, Umbro and Under Armour boots all feature in the goalscoring chart too.

A spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “Football boots throughout the years have become lighter and more dynamic, allowing players to improve their speed and cover longer distances on the pitch.

“Football brands have pushed innovators in the industry to come up with new designs and technological advancements to set themselves apart in a crowded marketplace. But sometimes the best way to set yourself apart is by simply using eye-catching colours!

“We’ve seen fluorescent yellow boots in previous premier league seasons, but the colour pink was the surprising trend this year, as it dominates the scoring charts.

“We were also surprised to see that black boots only scored 36 goals. Gone are the days of the classic Adidas World Cup and Nike Tiempo football boots. Perhaps these will continue to be worn recreationally up and down the country.

“If you are a budding striker, then according to this research, maybe a pair of pink Nike football boots might help you in your goalscoring efforts!”

With England’s Premier League 2020/21 season returning on Saturday, September 12, the NetVoucherCodes.co.uk team will be looking for which colour football boot will dominate the scoring charts next season.

For the full breakdown of the football boot data, please visit: 

https://www.netvouchercodes.co.uk/blog/football-boots/