The Scottish FA and SPFL have released a joint statement following criticisms leveled at the Hampden pitch. The football authorities promised that they would take action to make sure that the pitch was in an appropriate condition for the upcoming League Cup Final between Celtic and theRangers on Sunday 26 February.
Scotland have International matches in March as well but given the state of the pitch at kick-off between Celtic and Kilmarnock and then at full-time between theRangers and Aberdeen, it was clear that immediate attention was required.
“The Scottish FA and Scottish Professional Football League have today discussed ways in which we can mitigate the ongoing inclement weather to optimise the playing surface for the Viaplay Cup Final next month and forthcoming international matches at Hampden Park,” the statement read.
“The inclement weather conditions, allied to the fixture schedule being dictated by a winter World Cup, contributed to the underfoot conditions during two otherwise exciting and entertaining semi-final ties.
“Whilst significant work was completed in late October, enhanced pitch maintenance provision is being investigated as a priority, to ensure the best possible surface is available for the remainder of the season, notwithstanding the sustained forecast for more rain and challenging weather conditions.”
Celtic won the game 2-0 thanks to goals from Daizen Maeda and Giorgos Giakoumakis. However, it was clear as the game progressed that the pitch was in a poor state. This was further worsened by Rangers taking 120 minutes to overcome Aberdeen in the second semi-final.
The League Cup holders will be hoping to retain the trophy, which they secured against Hibs in December 2021. theRangers will be aiming to halt Celtic’s Treble hopes with a win next month in what promises to be an enthralling encounter.
