December’s Glasgow derby is going to be one of the biggest in years. Celtic, therefore, need to take their allocation and bring a backing to Ibrox.
Peter Lawwell has opened up a huge can of worms with his latest statement. He told Celtic shareholders and supporters at the club’s AGM that they may not take their 800-ticket allocation for the big match next month.
Some may very well nod in agreement at Lawwell’s excuse of safety. In truth, however, it’s one of the most ludicrous decisions Celtic would’ve made in years.
This is going to be the biggest match of Celtic’s season so far. A chance for them to really put some fear and doubt in the Steven Gerrard regime at Ibrox. A victory over their old foes would provide them with the biggest sucker punch they’ve had in years.
By taking the tickets away, you’re robbing supporters of the chance to see that. It’s going to be an “us vs the world” feel for Celtic fans at Ibrox, and many will absolutely cherish that idea.
There’s absolutely no reason whatsoever to believe Celtic fans will be less safe than usual. When Rangers pitched up at Celtic Park back in September, they also brought around 800 supporters. Other than the usual scuffles, there were no major incidents worth reporting.
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A slap in the face
Taking the tickets away from Celtic fans is a massive slap in the face to supporters. Ibrox is a venue they thoroughly enjoy more than many, and deserve the chance to celebrate a result there as much as the team.
The last time Celtic never took an attendance to Ibrox was back in 1994. A John Collins free-kick secured a valuable point away from home after David Murray banned all Celtic fans.
It hasn’t happened since, and Celtic shouldn’t even be considering backhanding their own fans in this way.
This is a support that’s had to visit games such as Hearts, Kilmarnock, and Livingston this season. They’ve been to see some dreadful performances, but they’ve always backed the side.
Actually robbing them of the chance to go to Ibrox and watch their team in their biggest domestic match of the season is pathetic.
Listen, we can all see where Lawwell is coming from. Yes, Celtic will largely be outnumbered, but no more than any other away side when they visit Ibrox.
The tit-for-tat ticket nonsense is getting tiresome. Celtic need to take their allocation and just start getting on with things.