Crowd restrictions are 'hammer blow', says Neil Doncaster
The SPFL chief executive is responding to restricted crowd numbers from Boxing Day
SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster says the decision to restrict crowds will be a "hammer blow" to clubs and fans across the country.
The Scottish FA and SPFL's Joint Response group have issued a statement saying they sympathise with clubs and supporters after they were told festive fixtures will effectively be a fan-free zone.
Attendances will be capped at 500 people in line with all outdoor events as the Government look to control the spread of the Omicron variant.
The JRG will now be holding a series of consultations over the next 24 hours with Celtic calling for the winter break to be brought forward.
SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster said: “Today’s news will be a hammer blow to clubs and fans across the country, who simply could not have done more to mitigate the impact of the ongoing pandemic.
“Despite the enormous financial impact, the 42 clubs have provided an invaluable source of reassurance, support and relief from the day-to-day impact of COVID-19 in communities throughout Scotland and they will continue to do so.
“Our clubs have adapted quickly and effectively to previous restrictions, and we will work with them in implementing the guidance from today’s announcement in the coming days.”
Rod Petrie, Joint Response Group Chair: “Today’s announcement is a source of disappointment to hundreds of thousands of fans across the country, for whom attending football matches during the festive season has been a tradition spanning generations.
“None the less, public health remains a priority for everyone in society as well as a responsibility for industries across the country, including football. The JRG exists to be the conduit between the national game and the Scottish Government throughout the pandemic and will continue to work with our members to ensure a seamless implementation of the new restrictions, whilst working on their behalf to ensure compensation for lost revenue via the UK and Scottish Government’s latest COVID relief fund.”