The fallout from last weekend’s dramatic Old Firm clash at Ibrox is still being felt — and now the focus has shifted to ticket allocations for the next meeting between Celtic and Rangers.
In the aftermath of the chaotic scenes that followed the Scottish Cup penalty shootout, questions have been raised about whether away supporters should continue to receive large allocations for future derbies.
Despite the controversy, Martin O’Neill believes Rangers should still receive their usual allocation when they travel to Celtic Park later this season.
Ibrox scenes spark fresh debate
Celtic were handed the full Broomloan Stand for the cup clash at Ibrox, bringing around 7,500 supporters into the stadium.
But celebrations quickly turned into disorder after the final whistle, as fans from both sides spilled onto the pitch following the penalty shootout.
The incidents have led to an ongoing investigation by the Scottish FA and sparked widespread discussion about whether large away allocations should continue for the fixture.
Some have even suggested a complete lockout of away supporters as a way to prevent similar scenes in the future.
O’Neill reacts to the chaos
Reflecting on what happened after the match, O’Neill admitted the scenes were deeply disappointing and could have lasting consequences for the atmosphere of the derby.
He said:
“The rules are that people should stay in their positions. There was a lot of joy with the crowd coming in. Next thing you know, I’m up there and got caught in the middle of it.
“And then the Rangers fans are coming out the other end. The scenes weren’t great and the SFA are holding an inquiry about it.
“To me, the saddest part about it all – of course you don’t want anybody injured, and I’m starting to think there were some scenes outside the football club – but the full allocation of tickets looks as if it will disappear again.
“I’d like to have seen (the full allocation stay in place), and I assume that because of those scenes, it probably won’t happen.”
Rangers still entitled to tickets at Parkhead
While the future of large allocations remains uncertain, O’Neill was clear that Rangers supporters should not be completely shut out of the final derby of the season.
With the Scottish Premiership split approaching, Danny Rohl’s side are expected to travel to Parkhead once more before the campaign ends — potentially in a title-defining clash.
And according to O’Neill, Rangers are still due their share of tickets for that match.
He said:
“No. They’re due their allocation and they’re entitled to that, it’s a league game. So I don’t think anybody’s arguing about that.”
What could happen next
The Scottish FA’s investigation into the events at Ibrox will likely influence future decisions about away allocations for Old Firm matches.
While a full travelling support may now be unlikely, the final derby of the season still promises to be one of the most intense fixtures of the campaign — regardless of how many fans are inside the stadium.