St Johnstone have confirmed that Celtic will receive three stands for their upcoming match at the end of January.
The Perth club have decided that instead of the usual two stands, that Celtic – as well as the Rangers – will get a third stand.
Saints have been trying to get home supporters along to the games but as two fixtures that will be in high demand loom, they have decided to maximise their profit by increasing the away allocation.
In a statement on their website, the Perth club confirmed the move was going to be taken on a trial basis for the remaining games this season.
”With the foregoing in mind, the Board has decided to trial the remaining matches this season against both Celtic FC and Rangers FC, with an increased allocation to away fans and all Saints fans will be accommodated in the West Stand. This stand accommodates in excess of 3000 fans, which going by recent analysis will be sufficient to accommodate the projected likely number of attendees from our home support.”
Existing West Stand Season Ticket holders will be entitled to retain their usual allocated seat. East Stand Season Ticket holders will be provided with alternative unallocated seating within the West Stand.
The remaining three stands ( North, East and South) will be allocated to away fans.
Pragmatic Saints fans will be understanding of the decision as it means that the club can increase their budget; however some appear to be disgruntled that they are allowing the away team to have a huge support at McDiarmid Park.
All home supporters will be moved to the Main Stand meaning that the away fans in the main stand will be moved to the East Stand. This means that a massive 7,000 away supporters will be packed into the ground for the fixture on 29 January.
This decision is the polar opposite to the one taken by Kilmarnock who seem to prefer empty stands rather than paying customers. Why anyone wants to watch football on that horrible surface remains a mystery.