The Scottish Cup final is set for a dinner time kick-off in a major victory for Celtic and Inverness Caledonian Thistle fans after broadcasters backtracked on plans for a lunchtime slot for the season showpiece.
It emerged both Viaplay and BBC were keen on a standalone start time for the June 3 clash at Hampden Park in a bid to avoid a clash with the mouthwatering Manchester derby FA Cup Final. That would have meant a switch from the traditional 3pm start for the version north of the border but news of that resulted in a furious supporter backlash.
It would have meant fans of the Highland club being forced to set off early in the morning to start their 340-mile around trip and also caused an inconvenience for Celtic fans travelling from further afield, particularly the large contingent who regularly make the trip from Ireland. But, a move also welcomed by the Scottish Football Association for their flagship competition, the idea has been scrapped.
