Celtic and the Rangers are competing for the Premiership title again and Ange Postecoglou’s side have a big advantage at this point of time. They are leading by nine points with eight league games to go and have to be considered as the heavy favourites to go on and win it from here. Of course, the two Glasgow giants will meet in the semi finals of the Scottish Cup as well.
There are two derbies left to be played in the league, which could prove to be vital. The first of those will be played next weekend at Parkhead.
On the occasion, there will no Rangers supporters in the stands though. Traditionally, 7500 away fans were present in derbies, but that number has been reduced in recent years and now finds itself at zero. It is clear that change is needed.
Rumour suggest that Celtic want a return to the big number of the past in terms of away supporters. On the other hand, the Rangers seem to have no plans to do that.
Celtic hero slams Rangers’ controversial decision
As reported by the Daily Record, Chris Sutton said while speaking on the Record Sport Celtic Podcast about the matter:
"“I just think it’s petty, and it’s something Rangers really need to sort out. I can’t see the upside over all this? What is the benefit of banning away fans from the fixture? This game is big around the world and the lockout is pathetic. I think if you asked both sets of supporters, they would say the same thing. It’s ridiculous and it diminishes the spectacle.”"
The Glasgow Derby is the biggest spectacle in Scottish football and by quite some distance. Away fans not being there takes away from it to a large extent.
Both sets of supporters would agree that away fans need to be present in games of this magnitude and the situation needs to change as soon as possible. But unfortunately, the two clubs have not managed to find a solution yet. Let’s hope they do so.
For now, the focus has to be on the upcoming Glasgow Derby though. If Celtic are able to win on the day, they could end the title race for all intents and purposes.
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