Fear Looms Over Post-Split Schedule After Rangers vs Celtic Chaos
The post-split fixtures are expected later this week as the title race tightens. Hearts sit top, with Rangers and Celtic close behind. Six matches remain to decide the championship at the end of May.
Title race and schedule concerns
With three clubs so close, a final-day showdown is possible. There is talk of another Helicopter Sunday and a decisive finish. Fear looms over the post-split schedule after Rangers vs Celtic chaos at Ibrox.
Recent cup chaos prompts fresh scrutiny
An inquiry has been launched into disorder following Celtic’s penalty shootout win at Ibrox. Away supporters ran onto the pitch to celebrate. Home fans reportedly threw pyro into the crowd.
The scenes have raised questions about staging a derby as a season decider. Blair doubts police and the SPFL will welcome a final-day shootout. He warns public-safety concerns will carry weight in planning.
Blair’s experience and historical context
Blair spent more than 20 years as the league’s secretary. He had significant input into fixture calendars during his tenure. Speaking to Filmogaz.com, he recalled a May bank holiday decider in 1999 at Celtic Park.
He described that night as challenging for all involved. Since then, police have generally aimed to avoid scheduling league deciders between the two main clubs. Those concerns have shaped fixture decisions over decades.
Past derby deciders
- 2012: Rangers won at Ibrox to prevent Celtic clinching the title there.
- Brendan Rodgers’ first Celtic spell: a derby at Celtic Park decided the league.
Policing, the SPFL and competitive balance
Blair says police try to work constructively with the league. The SPFL must give policing input serious consideration. But he stresses other factors also matter.
Competitive balance of the season remains the primary consideration. Fixture-makers must weigh safety, fairness, and sporting integrity when finalising the post-split schedule.
