Celtic ultras call for Hearts boycott as Tynecastle allocation ’causes unnecessary division amongst fans’
Bhoys Celtic have urged Hoops chiefs to reject future tickets for games away to Heart
As they criticise Hearts’ allocation of tickets for visiting fans, Celtic ultras have urged the team to deny tickets for Tynecastle.
Saturday night, in front of a modest crowd of about 650 Hoops supporters, Brendan Rodgers’ team easily won 4-1 in Gorgie. However, the limited allocation made it necessary for thousands of regulars to watch the powderkeg match from home. Although Celtics and Rangers used to occupy the full Roseburn Stand, the Jambos have reduced allocations for all clubs save city rivals Hibs in recent years due to the increased demand for season tickets.
The rush for tickets has “caused unnecessary division and friction amongst our support,” according to Bhoys Celtic ultras. The fan club urged Hoops executives to reconsider taking future Tynecastle tickets in a statement issued yesterday night.
The statement said: “The great majority of the group was unable to attend the game due to Hearts’ continuing away ticket drama. Celtic was issued a 632 away allocation, which had to be divided among players, sponsors, corporates, and everyone else. As a result, the majority of regulars were forced to watch the game on television.
“We’ve seen the ticket search create needless conflict and divide among our supporters for a long time. In our view, the club should decline to accept such a meagre allotment until a reasonable discussion that puts match-goers first can be held over the matter.
“We again question the reasoning behind permitting hundreds or even thousands of empty seats when there are as many fans eager to pay to fill them, even though Hearts (and every other club) are free to offer what they wish.
“There must be a means of reaching a more advantageous agreement for the entire ‘product’ and all parties involved. We went to the B team’s 4-0 triumph over Albion Rovers in Airdrie on Friday night in an attempt to show our support for Celtic.
Cheap tickets, Friday night football, and lax security all made for a good, enjoyable, and unique experience compared to what we’re used to. A timely reminder of the ideal football game.
