Former Darvel FC owner John Gall has explained the decision to move Celtic’s Scottish Cup meeting with Auchinleck Talbot to Rugby Park.
The Scottish Champions were due to turnout at Beechwood Park in January but on Friday evening, a decision was switched to take the Celts to Kilmarnock’s ground, which hosts 18k, rather than the 4,000 ground.
The decision was poorly received by the Talbot support, who would rather play their game at their home ground. Although, Gall provided BBC Sportsound some insight into the decision to move the game, citing his own experience in hosting Aberdeen for the famous giant killing.
“As owner of Darvel, we were allowed to play Aberdeen but would never have been given a licence to play either of the Old Firm.
“That was stated quite clearly to us by Police Scotland and the local council.
“They make the final decisions on if the game is played.”
It is a disappointment that the game won’t be played at the Junior ground; however, for Celtic supporters it is a positive as more Celtic supporters will be able to go to the game. Talbot will also be grateful for this as they could bank a significant payday by hosting the clash.
