The Return of Old Firm Away Allocations
Brendan Rodgers and Barry Ferguson, two prominent figures in Scottish football, have both expressed optimism regarding the recent decision by Celtic and Rangers to restore away allocations for their upcoming Old Firm derbies. The Glasgow rivals, known for their intense rivalry, have agreed to allocate approximately four per cent of their capacity for the remaining two fixtures of the season. This marks a significant step forward after a six-year period where away supporters were either heavily restricted or entirely absent from the matches. The Scottish Premier Football League (SPFL) played a crucial role in brokering the agreement last year, but the initial impasse persisted due to safety concerns at Ibrox Stadium.
Breaking Down the New Agreement
Under the new arrangement, Ibrox will now safely accommodate around 2,000 Celtic fans for the final meeting of the season. In return, Celtic has agreed to allocate approximately 2,400 tickets to Rangers supporters for the upcoming match at Celtic Park on March 16. This is a far cry from the days when up to 7,500 visiting supporters would attend each Old Firm clash, creating an electric and unparalleled atmosphere. While the numbers are still far below the historic norms, both managers see this as a positive development and a step toward normalizing the derby experience.
Rodgers’ Perspective
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers emphasized the significance of having both sets of supporters present, stating, "It’s a big part of the fixture. Having been involved in it with the supporters there, both home and away, and then obviously them being taken away, it does make a difference. So it’s great for everyone. Great for the game, great for the spectacle of the game, and obviously ultimately for the supporters. They get the chance to see their team, which is great." Rodgers, who has experienced the Old Firm derbies both as a player and a manager, understands the unique dynamics that arise when fans from both sides are present. He believes that the rivalry between Celtic and Rangers is one of the most intense in world football, and the return of supporters will enhance the overall experience.
Ferguson’s Welcome
Rangers’ interim head coach Barry Ferguson, a former player who frequently played in derbies where Rangers fans would occupy about 14 per cent of Celtic Park, echoed similar sentiments. "It’ll be good that the fans will be at Celtic Park. I’ve always said it’s something that the fixtures miss. In an ideal situation, it would be great if there was more. The way it is, the way it’s happened, the number of tickets we are getting, I’m just glad that away supporters are allowed back. In time, we’ll wait and see, but at least it’s a start," he said. Ferguson’s practical approach and appreciation for the game’s traditions highlight the importance of this move in rebuilding the spirit of the Old Firm derbies.
The Historical Context
The dispute over away allocations first came to a head in 2018 when Rangers deviated from the long-standing convention that typically saw around 7,500 fans travel to their rivals’ stadiums. The number was drastically reduced to about 10 per cent of that figure, leading Celtic to reciprocate with a similar reduction. This tit-for-tat approach eventually resulted in a total lock-out of away fans, fueling tensions and detracting from the spectacle of these historic matches. The safety concerns at Ibrox Stadium were a primary factor in the initial reduction and subsequent lock-out, but recent improvements have paved the way for a return to a more inclusive derby experience.
The Impact on the Derby’s Atmosphere
Both Rodgers and Ferguson recognize the significant impact that away supporters have on the Old Firm derbies. The presence of passionate fans from both clubs has historically created an electrifying atmosphere, making these matches not just sporting events but cultural phenomena. Rodgers, in particular, highlighted the importance of rivalry in football, noting that the Old Firm derby is exceptional in its intensity and significance. The return of away supporters, even in reduced numbers, is seen as a crucial element in restoring the derby’s unique character and enhancing the overall experience for all involved.
Looking to the Future
While the current agreement represents a positive move, both managers are hopeful that it is only the beginning. Rodgers and Ferguson are eager to see the numbers of away supporters gradually increase, eventually reaching the levels seen in the past. Rodgers stated, "We just have to get the supporters back in the stadium again. That was the start point and then hopefully it can get somewhere near to what it was before, because that always created an amazing atmosphere." Ferguson similarly expressed his desire for a return to the glory days of the Old Firm derbies, where the presence of away fans was a given and a crucial part of the game’s atmosphere.
A Step Toward Reconciliation and Revitalization
The restoration of away allocations is more than just a logistical agreement; it is a symbolic step toward reconciliation and the revitalization of the Old Firm rivalry. By allowing fans from both sides to attend the matches, Celtic and Rangers are acknowledging the importance of the supporters in creating the special atmosphere that these derbies are known for. This move not only benefits the fans but also the clubs and the broader football community, as it helps to preserve the rich history and unique cultural significance of the Old Firm derbies. As Rodgers and Ferguson look to the future, they are confident that this step will lead to a more vibrant and inclusive experience for all those involved in the beautiful game.
