Celtic have come out on top in the latest Old Firm row, with the SPFL backing their stance over away tickets for the May 10 clash at Parkhead.
The league has effectively ruled that the home side has the final say on safety, meaning Celtic’s conditions stand. In practice, that puts the spotlight on Rangers and whether they’re willing — or able — to meet those demands, particularly around the Union Bears.
Former referee Keith Hackett believes the decision won’t have been taken lightly. From his point of view, this would have involved detailed discussions with all the relevant authorities before any conclusion was reached.
“The decision will have been made after lengthy discussion with the Police, Ground Security, Scottish Government and the Scottish FA,” Hackett said.
“If there’s a threat of violence or game disruption, then people close to the coal face on this will have come to a decision on grounds of public safety.”
That’s the framework the SPFL has leaned on. While they’ve maintained that a five per cent away allocation is reasonable, they’ve stopped short of forcing the issue, leaving the finer details — including who actually receives those tickets — to be agreed between the clubs.
And that’s where things get complicated.
Rangers had hoped for a straightforward allocation, but with the league backing Celtic’s position, their options are limited. With the game fast approaching, dragging the dispute out further risks leaving them with no away support at all — something few at Ibrox would want, given what’s at stake.
This isn’t just any fixture. With the title race still alive, the meeting at Celtic Park could prove decisive. In that context, even a reduced away presence could matter.
From Rangers’ perspective, it may come down to accepting terms they don’t fully agree with, simply to ensure their supporters are inside the ground.
Meanwhile, the pressure on Danny Rohl continues to build.
Back-to-back away games against Hearts and Celtic now sit directly in front of Rangers, and anything less than maximum points could effectively end their title hopes. The recent 3-2 defeat to Motherwell at Ibrox has already left them chasing, sitting four points off the top with just four matches remaining.
Supporters know what that means. Drop points again — especially in those two fixtures — and the season risks slipping away.
Rohl has faced growing scrutiny in recent weeks, particularly around big-game performances. But the equation is simple now. Navigate this run, deliver results, and everything changes.
Fall short, and the questions will only get louder.