The former owner of a fellow Scottish non-league club has explained why Auchinleck Talbot had to move their Scottish Cup tie against Celtic to a neutral venue.
Rugby Park, where Kilmarnock play, will host the fourth round contest on Sunday 18 January after a decision was taken to move it from their actual ground, Beechwood Drive.
It means that Wilfried Nancy’s side will be playing in a more familiar territory instead of a non-league ground; however, there is one reason behind the decision.
Do you agree with the decision to move the game?
Why Auchinleck Talbot vs Celtic is being played at Rugby Park
On previous occasions, Scottish Premiership sides visiting non-league clubs have been allowed to play at the designated home ground.
Darvel were allowed to play against Aberdeen at their own stadium, but their old owner John Gall has explained how Auchinleck would’ve had the option taken out of their hands by the local authorities.
He told BBC Sportsound: “As owner of Darvel, we were allowed to play Aberdeen but would never have been given a licence to play either of the Old Firm.
“That was stated quite clearly to us by Police Scotland and the local council.
“They make the final decisions on if the game is played.”
Celtic’s recent Scottish Cup record
- 2016/17: Winners
- 2017/18: Winners
- 2018/19: Winners
- 2019/20: Winners
- 2020/21: Fourth Round
- 2021/22: Semi-Finals
- 2022/23: Winners
- 2023/24: Winners
- 2024/25: Runners-up
When is Auchinleck Talbot vs Celtic?
Following confirmation of where the game will take place, the date of the fixture has also been revealed.
Celtic will make the trip to Ayrshire on Sunday 18 January 2025.
As the game has been selected for live broadcast, it will kick off at 5:30pm GMT.
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