TITLE: Illegal SPL action has dollies flying in all directions AUTHOR: Paul67 DATE: 4/22/2008 07:56:00 PM ----- BODY: I am somewhat amused to read indignant statements from both Celtic and Rangers at the SPL fixture announcement. Peter Lawwell correctly says, “We do not want to disadvantage Rangers should they reach the UEFA Cup final, but we are extremely disappointed and concerned at the manner of the decision-making process – which was done without consultation with the clubs or the SPL board.” The rules of the Scottish Premier League Limited clearly states that “The [SPL] Board shall have authority to order that any League Match be moved from the scheduled date in order to facilitate the re-arrangement of fixtures.” The SPL executive have, therefore, acted illegally and beyond their remit in extending the league fixtures, as only the board, not the executive, have the ability to move fixtures. Messrs Gold and Blair may need their CVs updated after all. I campaigned heavily on Celtic Quick News for the season not to be extended, but in truth, no clear precedents exist. The Scottish Football League was extended regularly in the 1970s, but final-day fixtures have never been moved to ensure that no club would, for example, know how many goals they need to score to win the league. Rangers chief executive, Martin Bain, led with a frankly ridiculous comment, "It is hardly the best preparation in the lead-up to the UEFA Cup Final - if we get there - to play Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday in advance of that.” Sunday, Wednesday, Saturday before a Wednesday final is no hardship; Bain really should have someone proof-read this stuff before his utterances get out. He goes on to ask, "Why is the season simply not extended to conclude on May 27 (sic) regardless?", though perhaps is unaware that Euro 2008 starts eleven days later and Poland have a game planned for 26 May. By Friday morning I expect this debate will be academic and hope we have our minds on the task in hand. Beat them, beat them soundly and go on to win the league. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Tonybhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:16 COMMENT-BODY:The Myth about the season extension.

Our game v Dundee game was brought forward not pushed back and did not affect any other club. We would have played Dundee on the Saturday so no difference. We played Dundee midweek after a weekend fixture so we did what is acceptable in these circumstances;

a) helped our chances to win the UEFA Cup Final, and b) didn't increase our chances of winning the league or hinder any other club (we actually made it harder league wise as we played midweek after a weekend game giving us less rest)

The huns are asking for help;
a) after the UEFA Cup final will have been played and therefore not benefiting them for the UEFA Cup final, and b) increasing their chances of winning the league by not having to play fixtures before the end of season deadline and therefore impacting on Celtic's chances for the title and other teams' chances of European places.

I therefore propose that we should help them if they get to the UEFA Cup Final and allow them the weekend off before the game. However this game would have to be brought forward, just like our game v Dundee, and would mean 3 games in one midweek for them. Monday/Wednesday and Friday. Your welcome - huns.

As I have said before their problems have not been helped by them cancelling games for Scotland and the Lyon game but the main reason they are in the predicament that they are in is because the SFA did not follow their own rules and make the huns play their outstanding ties before the new rounds started. (A rule that they did impose this season on Kilmarnock who were told to play Airdrie on a Monday and replay them on the Wednesday before facing us on the Saturday, and a win on the Monday saved them having to play 2 games in the Midweek - an SFA rule)

Why were Rangers not asked to play their outstanding tie against Hibs on Tuesday 23rd February and play Hearts in the league game on the Thursday 25th February, as others would have been asked to do. (At the very least the Hearts game should have been moved so the cup-tie could be played). However as the Hearts game was live and their league challenge would be affected then lets just say we accept this scenario for that week.

However there is absolutely no excuse (and no dent on their title challenge or UEFA cup challenge) why they never used the above scenario (and again the SFA precedented rules) to play Partick Thistle in their Scottish Cup round 6 tie on Tuesday 18th March (instead of the Wednesday 19th March when it was played) and if the game went to an unlikely replay (like it did) then the replay would be on Thursday 20th March which would have allowed the winners to play their Scottish Cup semi final on the proper date. (Instead of playing their Scottish Cup Semi Final tie on a date planned for league games). Rangers could have moved their league game against Hibs on 22nd March to the Sunday to give them an extra day (therefore no different from what was played ie Wednesday then Saturday would be replaced by Thursday then Sunday). Lowly Partick would also have been more handicapped playing twice within 3 days given the ability of their small squad. Therefore with no handicap to Rangers' title chances and European chances the only benefit of not carrying out this scenario, despite it being the SFA rules, was to give Rangers help in overcoming lowly Partick Thistle.

Another option for Rangers could have been to bring their game against Gretna forward to Wednesday 5th December instead of cancelling it altogether and they would still have got a break before Lyon. (Similar to our game v Dundee). Why also did they not play their postponed game v Gretna or St Mirren on Wednesday 9th January?

Ranger's hype about not being happy is absolutely ridiculous and is deliberately deflecting away from the main issue in that if they do qualify for the final then they are being given an unprecedented advantage in their chances of winning the SPL. The fact that they will hopefully lose on Thursday doesn't hide the shame of Scottish football. This is the club who said that they have never asked for an extension.

So the truth behind the myth is that Rangers have been left with a fixture backlog not to help them with a possible UEFA Cup final appearance against Zenit or Bayern but because they have been helped unfairly (and against precedent) by the SFA so that they could overcome the mighty Partick.

Tonybhoy -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Gordon_J COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:17 COMMENT-BODY:Surely the SPL Board must meet to discuss this? Do the Company Secretary and/or Executive Chairman have authority to confirm decisions? If not, disciplinary action must follow for bringing the organisation into disrepute.

If a meeting isn't due soon we as a member club should be demanding an emergency meeting. I'm sure other clubs would agree. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Larrybhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:18 COMMENT-BODY:Apologies for the length of this post, but I don't make their rules !

From the SPL Handbook, the Board can do anything with 3 Directors present, although B1.1 and B1.2 do seem to potentially conflict.... murky at best, but don't think it can be challenged successfully. I'm sure legal review has already been undertaken by the SPL lawyers. Directors are;

Lex Gold – Chairman, Eddie Thompson - Dundee United FC, Rod Petrie - Hibernian FC Eric Riley - Celtic FC, Campbell Christie - Falkirk FC.


From the section , Proceedings of the Board

77. The quorum for the transaction of the business of the Board shall be three Directors present in person or deemed to be present in accordance with Article 82.

78. A Meeting of the Board at which a quorum is present shall be competent to exercise all or any of the authorities, powers and discretions for the time being vested in or exercisable by the Board.

82.

A meeting of the Board may consist of a conference between Directors who are in the same or different places, but all of whom are able (directly or by telephonic communication) to speak to the others, and to be heard by the
others simultaneously. Any Director taking part in such a conference shall be deemed to be present in person at the meeting and shall be entitled to vote
and be counted in a quorum accordingly. Such a meeting shall be deemed to take place where the chairman of the meeting then is. The word "meeting" in these Articles and the Rules shall be construed accordingly.


In the Rules section;

B1.1 All League Matches fixtures shall be specified by the Board as soon as practicable prior to the commencement of the Season following consultation with the SFA and the SFL. Subject to the terms of any Commercial Contract,
League Matches shall normally be played on Saturday afternoons, and Clubs so far as reasonably practicable shall be a Home Club on one week and a Visiting Club the next.

The Board shall have discretion to reschedule any League Match as it shall consider appropriate.

B1.2 All League Matches shall, unless rearranged on the application of the competing Clubs and with the approval of the Board, or on the instruction of
the Board in accordance with these Rules, be played on the dates and times scheduled at the commencement of the Season. The Board shall have authority to order that any League Match be moved from the scheduled date
in order to facilitate the re-arrangement of fixtures, provided that, where any proposed re-arrangement has not previously been approved by any Clubs
which might be affected thereby, the Board shall consult with and shall take into account any representations made by such Clubs before making any order under this Rule. The Board may refuse applications for approval made
within ten weeks of the scheduled date because of the effect such a change may have on the Coupon (listing the fixtures of the League) published by members of the Pools Promoters Association or other successor body.


Hope that's clear :-)

So, who made the decision ? I think we should be told. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger ElDiegoBhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:20 COMMENT-BODY:Paul

I like dbbia's words:

"hunt them down like dogs"

Yep - I sure like dem apples. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Dick Byrne COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:20 COMMENT-BODY:I'm obviously in the minority here but I don't have too much of a problem with this particular decision. I would expect the Scottish football authorities to help any Scottish club who were on the verge of a European final (of course whether they actually would help any Scottish club who were on the verge of a European final is another matter).

The real scandal was the decision to postpone the Gretna game. If that decision now comes back to bite both Rangers & the SPL on the bum then hell mend the two of them. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger daveinlondon COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:21 COMMENT-BODY:Tried posting this ca.20 mins ago but Blogger ate it ...

P67 from 11.10 today: one wonders whether something was lacking in that visiting foreman's training. Not surprised that he wasn't invited back. Mind you, the workforce sounds remarkably compliant, not something I'd ever bank on.

Have had no time to blog or surf all day so have just seen only the lead article and the BBC piece. Apologies if this has been said before, but this development does sound a bit like giving Tiger Woods an extra hole or two or Andy Murray an extra set, if the poor souls haven't quite got where they felt they deserved to be. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Des COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:30 COMMENT-BODY:There seems to be a certain amount of posturing going on with this decision - especially from our friend Mr Bain and the "popular" press.

I have a real problem with rules being changed mid-stream, and while the SPL have to a great extent painted themselves into a corner with the number of postponements and the Fir Park debacle, it seems to me that their announcement today is probably the best they could reasonably be expected to come up with.

As some have noted, after Thursday evening, it will hopefully be moot... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Estadio COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:50 COMMENT-BODY:Hi all,

Just before we hit the 'legal' button. According to the SPL, the rescheduling of fixtures was delegated officially to Messrs Blair and Gold at a minuted meeting many moons ago.

Stated by Mister Blair on Sportsound earlier this evening

Poor decision, left too late, upset just about everyone...

but hey ho on we go,
A bit o' luck and 3 in a row!

Hail hail

Estadio -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Thom The Thim COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:52 COMMENT-BODY:Paul67,

I accept the FIFA/ UEFA in house disciplinary rules.

However, what are the rules governing a shareholder, who is not involved directly with the club, should he wish to challenge this decision on the grounds of unfair trading?


tinytim,

whilst the litany of assistance handed to them this season have not, in most cases, affected our results, Yellow Saturday the exception, it certainly aided their points total and therefore the points differential.

In most leagues, teams drop points and every point dropped is seen by fans as a disgrace.

The fact that they were helped to not drop points, removed our leeway in the event of loss of form, injuries and suspensions.


From very early this season, the portents were that we were not going to be allowed to win the league.

Nothing in the intervening months has caused me to change my view.


Therefore, I urge everyone who claims to support Celtic to line up behind every single member of the staff.

Failure to do so is a dereliction of duty. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger ArdRi1014 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 20:53 COMMENT-BODY:Evening, this is getting beyond a joke. What does UEFA think of all this and does this situation happen/happened in other Euro leagues ? I agree the SPL have brought this on themselves. strong leadership was required but they were too permissive, not assertive enough. Stuck,rock,hardplace. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger ~Kevtic COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:05 COMMENT-BODY:To be fair I think the SPL were in an impossible position.

It was basically help Rangers hinder everyone else. Offer no help to Rangers and the Ibrox club would go off their trolley.

Personally thought this is an non issue until we beat them on Sunday and then it becomes a talking point. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Paul67 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:05 COMMENT-BODY:EDB, I cannot argue with that.

Daveinlondon, aye, compliance indeed.

Des, agree, lots of posturing, including from our man.

Thom the Thim, no chance. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Gordon_J COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:07 COMMENT-BODY:If estadio is correct and the matter was delegated to Messrs Gold and Blair then there may well be little we can do about the decision.

However the rules do state that clubs should be consulted and I would think that would apply even when the board has delegated powers to office bearers.

But we should also be asking why our rep on the spl Board agreed to this delegation, effectively disenfranchising the club from any decisions on fixtures. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger ElDiegoBhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:09 COMMENT-BODY:Paul

Is everyone appearing on the "Leave Your Comment" section only? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger moonbeams wet dream COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:12 COMMENT-BODY:Hunbelievably believable.

“The last time a Scottish team reached the UEFA Cup Final in 2003, a fixture was moved to give a full week to prepare.

However, the SPL are doing nothing to assist Rangers this time.”

You couldn’t make it up. Could you?

Paul67 and others, it matters not a jot the fact that the Orcs could be dumped out of the UC at semi stage. This decision stinks to the high heavens no matter which way you look at it. There is no other team in this league that would have been given such a favour in any given season, past, present or future or any of the other favours the funny handshakes have concocted this season.

Another thing, if they did not ask for an extension "officially", it fails me why Baldy Bain and Rankers are so angry. In my job I work to deadlines each and every day as I am sure many do on this blog. If I were to go into my work tomorrow and was offered an extension to a project that previously been pre-defined I doubt I would rock the boat. Baldy Bain and Moonbeams will be delighted by this decision and their statement is just a pointer as to what has yet to come. You know they will be back "officially", next time, after they are humbled by Fiorentina and then us, requesting that the UFC scenario is considered for the ESPEEL campaign.

It is also bewildering that this was decided on by the ESPEEL without an "official" request.

We are being set up. Mark my paranoid words. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger daveinlondon COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:14 COMMENT-BODY:EDB yes, as far as I can see here.

P67 not complacence, though.

Finishing in the office now and we're going for a pint of London Pride! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger possilbhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:15 COMMENT-BODY:Quite right. Let's win the league & ram it down their throats.

Hail Hail -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Highland Hoop COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:16 COMMENT-BODY:The only suprise here is that people are showing suprise. It really is a no brainer following the amount of times the authorities have bent over for the Dark Side this season so far. Why would this issue be any different.

It would be hypicritical of me to deny that keeping the seaon to it's set boundaries suits us but let's not forget that some of the fixture pressure down Govan way is of their (and the SPL's) own making when they tried to help help the great unwashed qualify from their Champions League group.

It's ironic that the current fixture pile up is partly due to their failure in that Competition. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger One Star Means More COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:19 COMMENT-BODY:Estadio - they may have been delegated to reschedule but is that the same as announcing their decision without reference to the board?

It is not uncommon when faced with a logistical problem to delegate the task to a small team but that's not the same as authorising them to make a binding decision, especially when board members object.

That to me smacks of usurpration - and dare I say it a cynical exploitation of Eddie Thompson's ill-health.

Wee link for Gold and Blair:

www.s1jobs.com -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger wishy_nights COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:21 COMMENT-BODY:same old same old, one rule for the huns , one for the catholics et al. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Dharma Bam COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:21 COMMENT-BODY:And there was me thinking I'd get first post again!

I think there is something smelly about all of the "outraged of Ibrox" statements - it does seem to be merely "scene-setting" for the next act. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger wishy_nights COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:22 COMMENT-BODY:It makes you sick that they can do this, Lawell has stated the facts lets see if the board have the balls to do something about it -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger cardiffbhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:25 COMMENT-BODY:So how did we get to this " unparalleled scheduling programme"

St Mirren v Huns cancelled on 11/11/07, on SFA request. Why was no date set in for this match, Rangers had a free midweek on the 19 December, however they chose to carry the game on, after the opening of the transfer window.

Celtic V Huns 2/1/08 cancelled 23/1/08 because Huns pitch was substandard

Gretna V Huns 9/12/07 cancelled because Huns wanted a rest. Could they not have brought this match forward, as the other Scottish club ((c) M Bain) done in 2003, to allow them more time. They had 11 days between the Kilmarnock game on December 1 and the Lyon thrashing on December 12.

Here's the free midweeks they could have scheduled their games into.

19 December NO GAME

9 January NO GAME ST MIRREN CANCELLED

6 February NO GAME - why was this date not used ?

26 March NO GAME - SFA arranged friendly match so Celtic players could get tired out and Rangers players could have a rest, and Barry Robson too of course let us not forget.


This problem is all down to their making, they are cheats pure and simple, Gordon Smith also arranged a Scotland match so they could extend their season, just so they can see exactly what they need from their last few matches. It is a joke. Celtic played 8 games in December, they played 6, we dropped 9 points, easy to do the maths.

Let's not forget though that if our manager had picked, or had been allowed to pick, Bobo Balde ahead of Steven Pressley for that 5 match spell in December where we dropped 9 points then maybe the league would still be in our hands -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Thom The Thim COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:45 COMMENT-BODY:Estadio,

To delegate fixture rescheduling to the hired staff is one thing, as long as these matches are rearranged within the time framework allocated for the programme.

To arbitrarily extend the season, thereby breaking the rules, is beyond the remit of normal rescheduling.

Hence the "compromised integrity" comment from PL. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger newsletter COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:47 COMMENT-BODY:Does anyone know which team the Chief Executives of the SFA & SPL support? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger SadiesBhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:48 COMMENT-BODY:1st -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger SadiesBhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:50 COMMENT-BODY:Doh! Is the blog broke? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Gordon_J COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 21:57 COMMENT-BODY:Liverpool 1 Chelsea 1 at Anfield.

Liverpool the better side, Kuyt put the ahead. But a 95th minute og from Riise gave Chelsea the advantage.

Barce v Man U tomorrow night. Now there's a game to savour. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Tic Talk COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:01 COMMENT-BODY:Is this is 1st it is for WG on his birthday -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Tony Bananas COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:05 COMMENT-BODY:dick byrne - you are falling for the propaganda and lies... this decision has NOTHING to do with helping the huns in Europe, that is pure and utter fabrication. This decision is designed to help them in the league. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:06 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost.

Peter Lawwell is absolutely correct -

"...we are extremely disappointed and concerned at the manner of the decision-making process – which was done without consultation with the clubs or the SPL board – and the effects on the integrity of the competition..."

Making it up as you go along...


.....more to come on this theme. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger BHOYSFOUR COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:08 COMMENT-BODY:What about the supporters of the teams involved in the extension of the league? Will they be compensated for the change in plans, and as someone mentioned before, the gate receipts for a midweek game versus weekend game, the whole thing stinks.

The SPL board don't give s sh**e about the ramifications to anyone else other than the Cheats in Blue, they should be taken to task over the whole episode from day one of the "Seasons of the Cheats".

We will win the league this year, what will they do then?


BF

BF -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Estadio Nacional COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:09 COMMENT-BODY:Love to quotes from Bain, raging because he knows they have reached the end of their run of anti football 2nd rate cup run.

Chianti Football will commence the defeat of anti Football on Thursday and start their demise into 2nd place in the league.

And it will taste all the sweeter after all thats gone on this season. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger moonbeams wet dream COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:10 COMMENT-BODY:paul67, in your opinion are there official roads that the club can take to stop this blatant cheating. If so are they likely to take it or are they more likely to keep the powder dry for another Millenium? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:15 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost.


3rd December 2007
The Scottish Premier League have agreed to postpone Rangers' game against Gretna to help Walter Smith's squad prepare for their Champions League decider against Lyon.

The Gers asked for Sunday's game, which had been due to kick-off at 4pm, to be rearranged as they face the French champions next Wednesday at Ibrox.

An Ibrox spokesman said: "Rangers Football Club would like to thank Gretna Football Club, the SPL and Setanta for their co-operation.

"The decision not only benefits Rangers but Scottish football as a whole and we can now concentrate fully on our crucial Champions League tie with Lyon at Ibrox on December 12."

Celtic also need a point from their final group game - against AC Milan in Italy tomorrow - but did not ask for Saturday's SPL clash at Hearts to be moved.



.....more to follow. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger SadiesBhoy COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:22 COMMENT-BODY:Is anyone else getting the butterflies in their tummy about Sunday's game? I'm hyped up already. On Sunday, will some kind soul please come and scrape me off the ceiling about 10.30am so I can get to the game?

We'll moider da bums!!
Hail! Hail!
SadiesBhoy -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Awe_Naw_No_Annoni_Oan_Anaw_Noo COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:23 COMMENT-BODY:If this is a minuted off shoot then I would imagine that PL was aware of this particular minutae before he issued both his statements on this matter and has done his homework on the legal side. Celtic were quick to release the statement without waiting too long for fan reaction.

As we hope its probably all mute but at least a call for a full and independent review of our footballing bodies and their current practices and recommendations of improvment. This season has convinced all and sundry that dont have an agenda that our game is in an absolute mess with the drive to resusciate Rangers and it is been done zealously for a reason. Dont wait until Murray sells up expose him for the phoney that he is. Its driving people away from the game. The product on the park is poor and if the competition(s) turnout to be the benevolent procession that they have been this year it might help Rangers but It doesn´t help the state of the game that David Murray himself helped to bankrupt. Now he´s using it as an escape route. These shenanigans prevent people from investing in our club and it needs addressing.

Reporting to a select committee made up of people in various areas of expertise, especially media and spin doctor experts. The smaller clubs must start to realise that they need to get their own identities to survive and being a prehistoric Rangers second class citizen is not doing them any good any more. Those days are gone. Rangers are only looking after themselves right now because they are desperate.

Mind you I have been saying that for 20 years.

If the concillatoty tone of Paul67 headline article is similar to that that subsequently comes out of Celtic. Then the cynical might start assuming a few things. That they missed the minute and its a valid loophole. That Celtic will meekly maintain the status quo for an unpopular business reason namely the Old-Firm. That a support with a large chip on its shoulder will always support the team through thick and thin.

As I said in an earlier post we demand a level playing field. This is overtly not the case. Everything is in place to start a postive process for the benefit of the whole Scottish game. Its important that we get the other clubs on our side with regards to this. I want to see an improvement in standards all round. We are not going anywhere quick and its time to try and buttress our own league.It can only make us better.

Happy Birthday WG

Hail Hail -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:25 COMMENT-BODY:the games afoot -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger The Original Danny COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:28 COMMENT-BODY:If they have stepped out of line, and made a decision that is out with their control (if there are no clear rules outlining they have the authority to make decisions of this magnitude on an 'ad-hoc' basis, then surely FIFA or UEFA should launch an investigation?

(Imagine if they did, we have over 100 years worth of evidence to hand in)

I can distinctly remember Bovista (i think it was that round) being given a week off to prepare for their game against us, whereas we had to play Rangers, at Ibrox, at 12:30pm on the Saturday, after playing on the Thursday.
We requested the game be moved to the Sunday (not exactly a request of the stature of Rangers') and were denied.

This was only a few years ago.

If there was ever proof that leagues can be won and lost at this stage of the season due to fixture congestion at the tail end of the season, surely we were forced, to prove it then...

No consistency, double standards time and time again -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Tony Bananas COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:31 COMMENT-BODY:PLEASE COMPLAIN TO THE BBC RE BLATANT BIAS ON COVERAGE OF THIS ISSUE. I am planning to do so but may already be written off as a "nut" having gone down this avenue before.

They are by no means the worst but they have a policy on responding to these matters and after all we all pay the fee.

I've just read their reportage of both club's reaction to today's announcement. This bears an uncanny resemblance to the front-loading of SPL fixtures in Rangers favour witnessed this season e.g. Rangers are allowed to state ther case first through Bain's ramblings.

BBC BIAS RE SEASON EXTENSION

The BBC very helpfully print his moan about the huns having to play 4 games in 8 days in a nice big red square just to make sure no-one misses it. Predictably Lawwell's comments are given no such prominence.

As someone pointed out earlier the reasons given for the fixture congestion do not mention cancelling their Gretna game then failing to re-scedule. WHy?

"Rangers pointed out that the last time a Scottish team reached the Uefa Cup final - Celtic in 2003 - "a fixture was moved to give them a full week to prepare".

The BBC print this as unquestionalbe fact without stating the obvious that this did not involve extending the season and certainly did not disadvantage any other Scottish team.

"Rangers had wanted the season delayed until 27 May, but even delaying it until 22 May disappointed Celtic"

They don't even need to quote Bain to make a great job of punting Rangers propaganda. Even the most cursory examination of the facts reveals that to extend the season till 27 May would be absurd (other teams waiting 17 days without a game, international fixtures scheduled for 26/27 May). And well done Auntie Beeb for portraying Celtic as the stubborn unreasonable party. Fantastic!

Add this to the non-coverage of our disallowed goals on Saturday whilst going to town on the Aberdeen disallowed effort and we've got another vintage week in a vintage year of bias.

I am too tired at this stage of the day to compose something effective but please, I would urge my fellow and more eloquent fans to voice their displeasure.

COMPLAIN TO THE BBC HERE! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:35 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost. Part 2.

10th December 2007
Aberdeen have failed in a bid to have Saturday's Scottish Premier League fixture against Motherwell postponed ahead of a vital Uefa Cup tie.

An SPL spokesman said: "We did receive a request from Aberdeen this morning and it was considered this afternoon.

"And, weighing up all the factors, we informed Aberdeen that the fixture will be going ahead as planned."

Motherwell explained the reasoning behind their opposition.

"While we wish Aberdeen every success next week in the Uefa Cup, Motherwell Football Club could not agree to the request," said a club spokesman.

"This was a matter ultimately for the SPL, but the postponement of a Saturday match to a midweek date would significantly affect attendance at the fixture and would inconvenience supporters."

Setanta Sports had expressed fears that the decision to postpone Rangers' game could damage the league's credibility and set a dangerous precedent. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger BJD COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:40 COMMENT-BODY:Too right! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:43 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost. Part 3.

LEE WILKIE has blasted the SPL for ordering Dundee United's grief-stricken stars to face Hearts today.

The Tannadice side yesterday asked league bosses for a postponement as their players come to terms with the tragic death of Motherwell captain Phil O'Donnell.

But despite agreeing to Celtic's request 24 hours earlier to have the Old Firm derby called off, SPL chiefs insisted United's stars must face the Jambos at Tannadice - four days after they watched in horror as O'Donnell collapsed during their clash with Motherwell at Fir Park.

Chairman Eddie Thompson immediately contacted the SPL but was told the game had to go ahead.

Arabs defender Wilkie said: "It's a joke and an absolute embarrassment that we're being made to play.

"It's beyond me why the SPL feel there is any need to play this match. It means nothing when you consider the tragic events of the past few days."

But SPL secretary Iain Blair insisted his organisation had made the correct decision. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Paul67 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:47 COMMENT-BODY:EDB, yes, Blogger is still causing problems.

Moombeams, I don’t see what the club can do apart from bluster. The decision has been made and for the next 45 hours it will be an issue.

Thereafter I believe it will be very old news. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:48 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost. Part 4.

3rd April 2008
Walter Smith insists Rangers will not ask the SPL to extend the season, even if they reach the Uefa Cup final.

"If, and it is a big if, we were to progress in all the tournaments then it becomes practically impossible for us to play the games," said the manager.

"But can I just clarify no-one from Rangers has ever asked the SPL to extend the season and we will not ask them to extend the season." -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 22:54 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost. Part 5.

9th April 2008
Scottish Premier League secretary Iain Blair has ruled out an extension to the SPL season – despite the potential of a fixture pile-up involving leaders Rangers.

The Scottish Cup final is down for decision on Saturday, May 24th, and Blair insists that all league fixtures will be played before that date.

The league leaders still have eight SPL games remaining, while they also remain in contention for Cup and Uefa Cup honours.

Blair said: “We need to look at circumstances as they develop and are aware of the challenges if Rangers progress in the Uefa Cup.

“But at this point in time the objective is still to finish the league season before the Scottish Cup final.” -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:03 COMMENT-BODY:how about reporting the whole fiasco to the office of fair trading and the trading standards authority and requesting an investigation, after all we are consumers -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:14 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost (on him). Part 6.

22nd April 2008
Martin Bain, though, is convinced the two scenarios presented to Rangers by the SPL yesterday will do more harm than good. "I don't see what the SPL have done for Rangers in terms of aiding them in European competition," he said. "They have simply accommodated a fixture. It's all very well for the SPL to go on about Rangers' co-efficient and how it's great for Scottish football but they are doing nothing to assist us.

(Conveniently forgetting the postponement of the Gretna game.)

"As for the situation of not being in the UEFA Cup final, we have been asked to play four games in eight days. The SPL cite the preservation of sporting integrity in their decision yet Rangers are the only club being asked to play four games in eight days, so there is no sporting integrity.

(Wanting the rules changed in mid season = sporting integrity? It would only be 3 games in 8 days if they hadn't asked to postpone the Gretna game.) -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Awe_Naw_No_Annoni_Oan_Anaw_Noo COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:22 COMMENT-BODY:U2_1888,

Part 3 happened because Dundee Utd. were due up next to play a well rested Rangers as the decision not to play Celtic had been already been taken. Dundee Utd had already beaten Rangers in the SPL earlier in the season. Rangers won 2.0. Its the only time this season they have beaten them over 90 minutes -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Jim the Tim COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:28 COMMENT-BODY:KOJO: AN UNRESERVED APOLOGY!

Hi Kojo!

On 20th April I asked the question of you "Kojo: Do you still think "McGeady is a BUM". We had a blogger discussion summarised briefly as follows:

You stated that you had "nevah evah used that woid..." and I responded saying that "I am not a liar, and I DO have a good memory...". You then reasserted that you never used the word but did say that at one point you had been hugely dissapointed in McGeady's performances, but were glad that his turnaround in performances meant that you now rated him as our best player.

I cannot take my comments back as they are out on the internet for all to see... What I can do however is unreservedly apologise to you as you didn't make such a comment! The 'Offending comment' was actually made by your 'good friend' Collie. (Apart from the poetry your comments and 'woiding' are very similar...) Collie's actual comment (from 23/07/07 15:48) was "MCGEADY IS PLAYING LIKE... A BUM!!" Collie did also state that whilst he wasn't interested in history, "..da future is still to come!"

So, whilst I remember the debate fairly well, it is clear that my memory is not as good as I thought it was. Lesson Learned: make sure of your facts before making accusations... What I would still say is that I am not a liar (which takes a deliberate act of deceit). If I get something wrong then I am man enough to admit it.

I shall now get my coat and crawl off the blog with my integrity severely dented.

Still yours in Celtic,

Jim.

GetyourfactsstraightCSC -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Kojo COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:32 COMMENT-BODY:Sir Paul

I am so depressed at the depressive depression that has settled over your normally ebullient and uplifting Opus Magnum... that I am prompted..... nay...compelled... to break my foresworn promise.

Therefore, I have unsealed my last bottle of Glenlivet...which, I had been reverently husbanding, in anticipation of cracking... at Next Sunday's Celebratory Party.

Yes,I am afraid that the ramifications, induced by the doleful,joyless and gloomy contributions which I have endured,today on this forum, have had a deleterious effect on my spirits.

I shall now seek to find a hoped for revival of conviviality and delectation by indulging in the demon.

Hoping,when I once more pay a visit to your normally entertaining and interesting undertaking... that I shall find that the now pervasive mood of bitterness and resentfulness...rancourness and self pity, will have evaporated.

Celtic 23 G.A. 0

Kojo. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Onlooker COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:37 COMMENT-BODY:Couple of questions
1. Is the decision by the SPL Exec cemented in place or will the FoD be able to revisit when they tumble out of Europe.

2. Was the decision to have this years semi-finals of Scottish Cup played to conclusion (for first time ever) made before the competition started or when the bad guys started to create their own fixture pileup?

3. Will the FoD get their penalty on Sunday first or second half.

4. Will we be denied one or two perfectly goals due to official errorto show that these things even themselves out !

5. Will the SPL trophy be flown to Tannadice or straight to Celtic Park?

The Onlooker -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:38 COMMENT-BODY:Integrity is lost. Again?

1st March 1999
The Scottish Football Association has suspended its Chief Executive, Jim Farry, in a row over the transfer of a Celtic player three years ago.

Mr Farry had vowed to carry on but the suspension was announced on Monday.

He and Celtic Managing Director Fergus McCann are in dispute over Jorge Cadete's move to Parkhead three years ago.

A statement read by SFA Vice-President John McBeth said: "The Scottish Football Association advises that the arbitration raised by Celtic against the SFA has been settled by the parties prior to completion of the arbitration.

"The settlement is in favour of Celtic. The SFA has issued a letter of apology to Celtic, will make payment of an undisclosed sum of compensation to Celtic and will make payment of Celtic's reasonable legal expenses in connection with the case.

"The SFA also advises that its chief executive Jim Farry has been suspended on full pay.

"Due to the legal nature of this matter, the SFA will not make further comment presently." -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Paul67 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:40 COMMENT-BODY:U2_1888, well done for your sterling work tonight; I’ll maybe reference it later in the week.

Kojo, look in on Thursday evening, I expect the mood will be thoroughly improved. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:41 COMMENT-BODY:kojo,
why so blue, today's stuff is nothing new to us, what is new is that we now have evidence for all the world to see, no matter what the wee free press try to do to cover it up.
The outrage will have alerted the world and european authorities to our plight.
The simplest analogy to todays news would be that the stock excahnge allowed trading to continue for a preferred organisation, innit. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger winningemmell COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:42 COMMENT-BODY:Thom The Tim -


you got me sussed !!


Tic Talk -

time stops for no man

Tick Tock


awe-naw -


danke


WG -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger PJBhoynyc COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:46 COMMENT-BODY:I am of out to dinner with some Bhudists strangely enough..

Quick comment...

As I stated earlier....I agree with the odd comment that has said...

Surprised?
Of course we are are not.

Whilst I appreciate the diligent and specific work of our excellent historian U2_1888
(Great Work sir.. )

The Real Question about Integrity Lost is...

Was it ever there in the first place....?
Stop tittering at the back...And stop getting angry at the front.

Lets just skelp there erse on Sunday...(Marker for next year)
And everyone after Sunday....

And Maybe...Just Maybe..

The Ghods of Fortune may smile upon the Good Ghuys....

Roll On their Wailing and Gnashing of Teeth....

What a deliciously sweet sound that would be to Herald Historeeeeeeeeeeeee.... And Three! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Ardoch COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:49 COMMENT-BODY:Don't worry about it guys, they are just ...... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger winningemmell COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:50 COMMENT-BODY:That's aw wi need if Kojo's taken tae the hard stuff....


It's The End Of The Woild


Kojo -

WG remaineth ever with a beat that's up. I'm definitely older but no much woisa


VENCEREMOS


Nite all and thanks fur makin ma da that wee bit



SPECIALER


espeshelley WishyGhirl




I love you all





WithGreatagecomesevenmairparanoia. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger PJBhoynyc COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:50 COMMENT-BODY:PS

As a Support... Listen to Joe Miller and what a couple of other posters have said...

We have nothing to lose in the last few games.....

The Support..We know...LIFT the team...

Sing for The Team & The Manger

They are One and The Same.

Sing.... & Help Break The Bad Guys Backs... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger PJBhoynyc COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:52 COMMENT-BODY:PPS

Happy Birthday WG....

Keep Em Comin..... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:55 COMMENT-BODY:Oh and kojo whit have we told you about that towel, their next trick will be point deductions for sectarian singing, and we'll still win. the rotten mob are rotten. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger pablophanque COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:57 COMMENT-BODY:Worth a listen.

Scotland's Shame Banner Explained

Apologies to the poster who posred it earlier as I can't give due credit.

pablophanque -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Kojo COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:58 COMMENT-BODY:My dear,dear,dear,dear, friend... Jim the Tim


You,pal... are a Prince amongst men!

You are, indeed a Man to ride the river with!( Prepo! Prepo! Alert, Will Robinson...ed )( Look pal.. if that phrasing wiz good enough for the Duke... well.. it's soitenly good enough for me!)

Thanks for your very gracious "mea culpa".

Although, collie is thought by many, to be my alter ego... I am sorry to offer a denial...as I would indeed be so honored if that were so...But... Na!... collie, is a very talented and lucky son of a gun, who lives the kind of life that I soitenly wish I could.
And you can take that to your nearest Savings and Loan!

We do of course think in tandem, on many subjects...although... and incidentally...

collie and I are at loggerheads over the retention of our present Manager of Celtic.

He, indeed... believes most DOGGEDLY( That figures!...ed)( I will set 'em up..and you pal..will knock 'em down!) that we should "throw da Bum,out!"..again..his woids. not mine...

I am firmly in the camp that Approves most indubitally, that Mr. Gordon should indeed be retained... and should remain at the helm, until further notice.

Yes, we have been friends..the wee dug and I..for many,many years..so naturally, we are liable to share a commonality in idioms of speech..as close friends are wont to do,do.

Again, I give you a congratulatory doff of the Sombrero, pal...

You are a Rara Avis.. and don't let anyone try to tell you that ye urnae!


Kojo.
yer pal... who likes ye a loat. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger pablophanque COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:58 COMMENT-BODY:WG, belated my frined :o)

pablophanque -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger U2_1888 COMMENT-DATE:22/04/08 23:59 COMMENT-BODY:Statement from the SPL....reworded....

"Having extended Rangers the favour of agreeing to the requested postponement of their fixture against Gretna - a favour not extended to Celtic despite a more demanding schedule and indeed declined when requested by Aberdeen with a similar schedule - the SPL would like to announce a further favour for Rangers.

A direct consequence of the original favour is that Rangers now have a congested fixture list to deal with, ironically compounded by their progress in Europe - the prime objective of our original favour. As a result, the SPL would like to announce a further favour to Rangers to alleviate this congestion caused by the original favour.

The fact that this additional favour will mean that Aberdeen - whom Rangers face in the last SPL fixture - will have a gap of 12 days between their penultimate fixture and this fixture is an unfortunate consequence for Aberdeen. However, they aren't as important as Rangers.

Similarly, Celtic will have to hang around for 11 days with no fixture. As the SPL is a secondary competition when compared with the UEFA Cup, any integrity compromise with the provision of (another) favour for Rangers while simultaneously disadvantaging Celtic and Aberdeen is a small price to pay.

The irony that the two clubs directly disadvantaged by this second favour are the same two clubs that were not afforded the same original favour in similar circumstances is, indeed, completely lost on us here at the SPL."


End of reworded SPL statement. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger winningemmell COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:04 COMMENT-BODY:da = day, been a long one




pjbhoy/pablo -


thanks and good night/day



Off fir a gas wi Mr Sandman



SACK DUFFIELD AND ALL THE REST -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger winningemmell COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:05 COMMENT-BODY:u2_1888 -



good lhad -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger One Star Means More COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:08 COMMENT-BODY:Tony Bananas and all:

I have commented on this - and I think Paul has picked up on it - but let me be quite explicit regarding media coverage of Scottish football.

The BBC does not have ANYONE to write exclusive reports for its website, as far as I know. Iain Macwhirter picked up on this in a piece many moons ago, referring generally to BBC online news coverage but the info I have is pretty sound, I believe.

What they do have is people who scan the existing media and re-write their stories - and they have lots copy from agencies.

When you read Scottish football "news" as opposed to Chick on the BBC website, 90% of it is rehashed copy from an agency and the vast bulk of that comes from PA Scotland.

The guy who delivers almost all the nuts-and-bolts stories for them is Ronnie Esplin, author of numerous books on Rangers including (co-authoring) It's Rangers for Me, of Gordon Smith notoriety.

I am reliably informed that virtually all of the stories that appear without a "byline" are from agencies and PA Scotland is the biggest in the country.

Ever notice how many stories in different titles are so similar? That's because they came from the one source.

But it gets worse. My information is that the resources at Scotland's big media titles are so stretched that they are growing ever-more-reliant on agency copy because it is far cheaper than sending someone to cover stories.

The result is that Rangers historian Ronnie Esplin is probably THE most influential reporter in Scotland yet a name virtually unknown by the majority of Scottish football fans. And, in case it needs further clarification, he is decidedly one of David Murray's 80%.

Almost all of the rest of the BBC online copy is rehashed from the papers, incidentally.

But PA Scotland is also very often the first to react to big stories - and that shapes the early perspectives on all the issues.

Now, to my mind, this is information that very few people have previously considered and I could have posted it on my own blog, which I gather gets read by the odd person. However, the reason I choose to post it here is because I genuinely think it is important to the club.

The comments I read tell me that Celtic fans are unaware of this. But perhaps more importantly, Celtic really NEED to be aware of this.

It is, in my opinion, impossible to formulate a communications & media strategy for Celtic without fully grasping these points which are very easily missed. Ronnie Esplin informs a huge proportion of the debate in Scottish football.

So that is why I want to flag it up here. (I am decidedly NOT, though, suggesting people harass him - just be aware who is the author of the words you read).

I have one other small piece of related info that I might yet release on a story on my own blog and, if Paul doesn't object, I would like to post a link here. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger setting free the bears COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:11 COMMENT-BODY:collie/kojo

I think we could have a unique paper to present to the American Psychiatric Association.

Many people have displayed multiple personalities in the past and some have crossed the gender and race boundary but all have managed to keep it intra-species.

How about it?

As a follow up to "The man who thought he was a hat" we could film "The man who thought he was a sheepdog". A kind of Greyfriars Bobby meets One Flew Over The Cukoo's Nest.

Would Al Pacino be tempted into his first canine role (if you discount Dog Day Afternoon)? Or are we talking about bringing Lassie out of retirement? Might need to smear a bit of vaseline on the lens for the close-ups. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger cHico Esteban COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:20 COMMENT-BODY:One star

Thanks for the heads up on the beeb, had an inkling that was the case, either that or they all equally as biased (or both!). I was thinking about your name, I wonder what the huns will do when we reach 50 titles which we are sure to do, i know they shall certainly never win the big cup. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger One Star Means More COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:27 COMMENT-BODY:cHico Esteban:

Some followfollower commented that he wouldn't want me booking him a hotel room if I thought one star was better than five.

Pitying the lad somewhat, I tried to relate how not all shiny things have equal value. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Bloke109 COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:28 COMMENT-BODY:As quoted on the Scotsman's site, 'SPL fan views':

CELTIC
TWO games, three goals, six points and moans all round. Sure, Saturday was flat, but compared to the high on Wednesday it's not surprising there was a reaction against Aberdeen. Despite carping from Zander Diamond, for once we got a lucky break from a referee, even if Iain Brines appears arrogant when dealing with players.

Paul Caddis was a pleasure to behold with unbounded energy and enthusiasm and has a big career ahead of him at Celtic Park.

Shunsuke Nakamura's goal against Rangers was superb and he would have had another but for the handball by Carlos Cuellar. Maybe we should follow rugby and award the goal in those situations rather than reward cheating with a second chance?

The actions of one coin-throwing moron on Wednesday allowed the focus to be diverted from a great performance.

Let's hope the headlines on Monday are about another superb performance from Celtic and keeping the league alive.

Tommy Dornan www.celticsupporterassoc.co.uk

RANGERS

A LOT to get through this week. Firstly, well done to Celtic last week. Let's hope they show as much determination to find the missile throwers as they did to win the game. I won't hold my breath though.

Secondly, the performance against St Johnstone was abject, but at least we have another Hampden trip to look forward to next month.

Thirdly, roll on tomorrow. European semi-finals do not come often, and this will be a night to treasure – hopefully.

Fourthly, can we have a strong referee on Sunday? After Hartley and Robson stayed on the pitch last week and referee Iain Brines invented a reason to disallow Aberdeen's goal on Saturday, it's clear our referees have responded to intimidation.

And lastly – the PFA Player of the Year Awards. What a joke that a team going for four trophies wasn't recognised.

I think I speak for all Rangers fans when I say how proud we are of how we have done this season, no matter what happens this week.

David Edgar www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Sir J. Stein COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:34 COMMENT-BODY:rangers postpone game v gretna

rangers need replay to beat hibs in the scottish cup

rangers need replay to beat partick in the scottish cup (LOL!)

result: rangers have three outstanding league games to play

what does this have to do with their involvement in european competition?

the current situation is completely, NOT partially, of their own making and was caused by the fact that they are simply not very good.

the authorities are aware of this and are giving them as much help as possible to prevent us doing 3iar as they are clearly not good enough to do it themselves.

will make it all the sweeter when we do win the league.

backedcelticat11/4csc -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger cHico Esteban COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:34 COMMENT-BODY:One star means more

Rangers fans have never understood the difference between quality & quantity. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Kojo COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:35 COMMENT-BODY:My dear,dear friend ....One Star..
@00.08.
Now that last submission from you... pal...is what is known as ... "GOOD COPY"

The revelations that it contained, are most intriguing and interesting... and not only that...

I AM CERTAIN THAT THEY ARE ONE HUNDRED PER CENT TRUE!

If you lived in the UNITED STATES... you would soon find out ..that that policy that you have touched on,in your submission..regarding the dissemination of NEWS.... FROM ONLY ONE SOURCE...is a very common practice,here in the GOOD OLD.

The Nightly News,here in LAS VEGAS is shown over FOUR LOCAL STATIONS... and the News that is reported is one and the same in each of those Stations...

Then at Five Thirty P.M. ...the NATIONAL NEWS IS REPORTED... over ...CBS,NBC,ABC... and

Surprise,surprise...

Again in each of these Stations...

The Nightly National News that is reported , is Identical, in every facet... except,of course. the Obligatory, TWO MINUTE, Human Interest Segment...at the very end... which is alway different, in every case.

It being composed of a cute or sentimental tale, which tugs at the heart strings.

Yes, Virginia..
Nae doot aboot it...

The News is Pablum for the Masses... It is Fixed.... It is CONTROLLED.

So why should it NOT be otherwise in Scotland?.... especially, where the DARLINGS OF THE ESTABLISHMENT ARE CONCERNED?

However, keep it coming pal... ye hiv the right idea.


Kojo.
yer pal...who believes everything ye hiv writ... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger One Star Means More COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:40 COMMENT-BODY:Kojo:

I'm honoured - discard the frivolous "u" at your leisure. :) -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Thom The Thim COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:42 COMMENT-BODY:One Star....,

Thanks for the Esplin Explained piece.

Valuable information to bear in mind when reading various news reports. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Bloke109 COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:43 COMMENT-BODY:One Star

Seconded what Thom the Thim said. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger southbhoy COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:53 COMMENT-BODY:I'll be sharing the stage with St. Johnstone defender Kevin Rutkiewicz on May 3rd, in case anyone needs reminded just think back to that sore one that put Chris Burke off the field on Sunday. I'll be offering some thanks to the bhoy for putting one of our possible problems to rest for next Sunday's match. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger pablophanque COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 00:54 COMMENT-BODY:David Edgar, may an unending stream of Celtic Victories haunt you to your grave. You epitomise everything that is wrong with this wee s****hole of a country that some of us presently live in. You purport to be the "reasoned" and "enlivened and forward-thinking" orc that professes to speak for the vast majority of the modern-day hun supporter and ergo, someone who carries a bit of gravitas. Fortunately, every time that you open your mouth, you are the epitome of what we despise in your kind.

The masquerading hun. The supposedly intelligent hun who has left all that nonsense behind. Yet every time you peak, your prejudice is there for anyone who cares to look ! How you are ever given credence says more about the media in this country than I ever could. Keep telling it "Like it is !!!"

My first candidate for breast reduction because. let's face it, has there ever been a bigger one ???

pablophanque -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger One Star Means More COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 01:00 COMMENT-BODY:This post has been removed by the author. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 01:05 COMMENT-BODY:one star
its interesting stuff you have imparted, and here was me thinking there was a party line being toed by many.
cheers for the info.

I got a sneeking suspicion that todays SPL decree will be overturned by the weekend and that the guilty parties will be sacked come monday.
Their unilateral declaration to the press without consultation is designed to embarass the SPL into standing by this decision. The lies they have spun and the publicity courted to justify the decision, made by two rogues will be publicised.
This is an coup instigated and financed by the rotten mob, I doubt very little digging will be required to expose the corruption attached to this fiasco. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger logger 'GG COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 02:46 COMMENT-BODY:SPL Press release.
July 12th 2008.
In a statement released by the SPL today, Iain Blair, Company Secretary of the SPL, and Rangers fan commented:
"It is well documented that last season was an exceptionally challenging season in terms of fixing the championship.

The combination of a number of diverse circumstances produced unparalleled scheduling problems, and, to the acute embarrassment of all the officials at the SPL, the end of season collapse of Scotland’s favoured team, despite all our efforts to accommodate their winning the championship.

Our aim throughout had been to protect the integrity of our competition by ensuring it did not become a one team league, balance the interests of our establishment club and have regard to the welfare of senior players and management at Ibrox.

Therefore should, as we fully expect, Rangers FC qualify for the Champions League group stages, we will be cancelling all of their weekend fixtures prior to Champions League matches, allowing them to fully and gloriously represent the SPL and the majority of Scottish football without having to worry about injuries and fatigue.

To avoid a repeat of last season’s fiasco, Rangers will be awarded the three points for each of these six games, two of which will be against Celtic.

Statement ends.

'GG -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger malone19 COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 02:48 COMMENT-BODY:The media, particularly sports media, as a whole is littered with not journalists but internet researchers. Newspapers now employ people with the sole purpose of scouring the internet to find stories to 're-write' I know this because I know someone who does it (non sport related) in England.

The fact is there are very few investigative journalists left, news providers rely on companies providing news feeds and these internet researchers (paid less than journalists of course) to 're-write' existing news... and we've all seen this re-writing in practise... someone posts up a good piece and a week later it's in the paper almost word for word.

Guess that's the reason why all the stories in all the papers are EXACTLY the same simply with different headings. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger logger 'GG COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 02:54 COMMENT-BODY:July 13th
Celtic Statement in response to yesterday's SPL statement.
CELTIC Football Club believes that yesterday’s announcement by the SPL has compromised the integrity of the competition.

Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell said: “We do not want to disadvantage Rangers should they join us in the Champions League group stages, but we are extremely disappointed and concerned at the manner of the decision-making process – which was done at an LOL meeting without consultation with the clubs or the SPL board – and the effects on the integrity of the competition.

“In addition, this decision, which merely reflects the norms we have faced for 120 years, will cause us a great deal of inconvenience but will not prevent us from completing four in a row.
Although it will mean that Celtic have a handicap of 6 points before playing our first league fixture, we are confident that with our close season signings, closer scrutiny of Scottish referees announced by UEFA and the financial collapse of Murray Enterprises we will retain the championship.

“In principle we accept that the league championship was always subject to internal meddling and fixing. However, the league must not be further compromised by changing the rules during the course of the competition and no further mid season decisions made on an ad hoc basis will be tolerated.

“We firmly oppose this decision and feel, in fact, that it has further compromised the integrity of the competition and that of the officials who run the game in Scotland.”

Statement ends.

'GG -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger PJBhoynyc COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 05:39 COMMENT-BODY:One Star Means More @ 00:08

Makes perfect sense to me.....
How nonsense is all many see...


'GG ....02:54
Very Funny..... I would say...

“Bitter the jest when satire comes too near truth and leaves a sharp sting behind it"

Roll On Their Humility........ -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Taurangabhoy COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 06:54 COMMENT-BODY:Highland hoop couldn't agree more but better out than in.

I have had a feeling all season that the pressure against us winning three in a row would be from all fronts. If the twelfth man hadn't buckled I think we would have won it by now. As it is we can win it despite the long odds. Every game for us is a Cup final and every one for them is whether their bottle and the MIB can hold it together. At the end of it all I will still be a Celtic supporter and no matter what the cup count for the year I know what team I think plays better football. c'mon the hoops. keep the faith. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Big Joe COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 08:24 COMMENT-BODY:Dont tell me the SPL broke the blog as well

BigJoewhoHASbrokeTheBLOGb4 -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger dontbrattbackinanger COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 08:59 COMMENT-BODY:EDB- assuming that Big Joe hasn't broken Hotmail as well as the Blog you should have mail [fingers crossed].

I would like to know what indestructible material the tape of the Zander Diamond' goal' was made off, considering the number of times it's been rerun on the BBC. It's like[well it isn't really] the JFK assassination.

Maybe NBT could get hold of some and use it the next time the fanbelt goes on his boat. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Madra Rua COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:04 COMMENT-BODY:Could we please get away from this idea of "helping" a Scottish club do well in Europe.
I do not, under ANY circumstances, wish to help a club that is infested with anti-Irish, anti-Catholic, neo-fascist, lowlifes.
Even if they were a normal football club, why would I want to help them improve in UEFA points/ gain financially, to become stronger against us next season?
The unmentioned Elephant in the the kitchen, is that unless we can gain entrance to the epl or a Euro league, we will never reach our full potential and will always be stuck in a small minded sectarian/racist mickey mouse competiton.
It p*sses me off when I know, and this is my brain not my heart speaking, that if we had access to the epl with its worldwide tv coverage, we would be the biggest club in the world, by a country mile.
Every Paddy, from Townsville to Timbuktoo, would join with his Irish/Scot cousins to support them.
Celtic Park would have to triple in size to hold the multitudes.
C'mon Dermot, bribe/blackmail the powers that be in Europe/england.
I'd even take a spot in the 1st Division to get out of the Scottish/orange spl. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Pararoo COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:06 COMMENT-BODY:May I just point out this is actually the second league extension for this season!

The first was as a result of Scotland NOT qualifying for Euro 2008, hence the Scottish Cup Final was then scheduled for 24th Final allowing an extra week for league fixtures!

If only Scotland had qualified for Euro 2008, what predicament would G.Smith/SFA/SPL/Scot League/Mr M.Bain/Moonbeam/Scotlands Physio find themselves in then!? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Cubist Funk COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:11 COMMENT-BODY:Paul67 - many thanks for the blog and the many interesting points raised.

You appear very bullish about Fiorentina - have you seen them play this season?

Away from home Fiorentina don't score many and are likely to concede a goal/game.

Defender Tomáš Ujfaluši is out injured and star man Mutu is one yellow from a suspension.

Given the RFC injuries and suspensions it appears Fiorentina will never have a better opportunity to wrap up a tie in the first leg.

However, presumably we want RFC to put out their strongest team in both games? If so - surely it's better that the tie is very much alive after 90 minutes tomorrow? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger CaltonTongues COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:32 COMMENT-BODY:Got this emailed to me this morning Scotland's Shame -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Paul67 COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:36 COMMENT-BODY:One Star means more, indeed, I believe most of the newspapers in Scotland use agencies to pad out their coverage, not just the BBC.

The BBC itself, though, is far from a Rangers stronghold. While there is a liberal sprinkling of Rangers fans especially among the broadcasters, I can attest that the sports department is more green than blue.

Cubist Funk, agree. A scoring draw would be a perfect result tomorrow night, keeping the focus very much on the second leg. I have not watched Fiorentina this season. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Jamie COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:40 COMMENT-BODY:am i back? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger St-Gris COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:43 COMMENT-BODY:Paul67,
I wish to GOD that i had your confidence in Fiorentina. You say you havent even watched them this season as well.

I had confidence in Bremen & Sporting but the huns have kicked and elbowed and mugged teams all the way through this UEFA campaign that i just cant bring optimism to the fore this time.

I hope and pray that you are correct.

They are quite capable of scoring in Italy after a 0-0 at ibrox - away goals again and a date in Manchester. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Parkheadcumsalford COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:45 COMMENT-BODY:Paul,

Just got through last night's contributions. Some very important material there. I think that Tommy Dornan, if he's quoted correctly in the Scotsman, needs to have a good look at himself. How any Celtic supporter could comment on Saturday's game and not mention Brines' ruling out a perfectly good goal for us is beyond me.

One Star Means More's warning about the power that Esplin has in the Scottish Sports Media is more than timely and we need to face it down.

Tony Bananas, I have occasionally complained to the BBC about their bias but have had little or no satisfaction from the Sports Department, although I have had it elsewhere. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger inkybhoy COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:46 COMMENT-BODY:Hail, hail,

Any moves by the SPL to extend the league season to 'help' Rangers and our anger, angst etc will mean nothing unless Celtic take maximum points from all remaining fixtures.

Did anybody expect any help from outside agencies?

There is no way I want Rangers to get to the UEFA Cup final, in the off chance that they win it, but I would like them to have to play as many games as possible and as in tight a time scale as allowed by the authorities.

Tiredness, injuries and suspensions will hinder their domestic and European efforts.

What Celtic need to do is keep winning, ugly or otherwise, to keep the SPL pressure up.

Well, DeeUtd and Hibs are all going to looking for points from Celtic and Rangers. Let's make sure they take points from TFOD and not the Good ghuys.

Best way to sicken Rangers, the SPL, SFA and certain members of the print and broadcast media is for Celtic to win the league again.

STANDING UP...Forza Viola, Hasta la vittoria siempre, Over and Over ad infinitum. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Jamie COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:49 COMMENT-BODY:WELL! WELL! WELL!

After months of blogger purgatory, I, Plato, Michael Brattbackj's "tin eared tormentor" is BACK!!


HOWEVER! I have just finished a nightshift, so I will not be staying long!

As far as the league extension goes, the collusion between "Walter" and his buddies, is now out in the open.

EVERYTHING will be done too ensure that they win the league.

A quick word for any "KERRANG CSC" members a-lurkin'.

The title track from the forthcominbg Judas Priest masterpiece, "Nostradamus", has been posted on-line, which can be accessed from the bands' website.

It is rather excellent.

I am away into the Platcave for another listen.

KERRANG CSC - ROCK ON - PLAY IT LOUD - THE SINNER -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger dontbrattbackinanger COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 09:59 COMMENT-BODY:Platmeister -welcome back! It's been quiet on here while you've been away, in more ways than one.

I shall get my earplugs out of storage, and fire-up the banjo.

Life is GREEN! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Jamie COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 10:03 COMMENT-BODY:Michael Brattback

Even though I was in blogger purgatory, I was still a-lurkin', so I was always here in spirit!

I have to get the hang of this typing thingy again, though!

I shall be back later, after a few hours kip!! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Drogheda COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 10:50 COMMENT-BODY:winningemmell

From comments in the last few posts do I take it that we share the same birthday of 22nd April all be it that I predate you by ten years (unless you are telling porkies on your blog). -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger dontbrattbackinanger COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 10:56 COMMENT-BODY:Just had an e-mail from the bhoy, currently making his way through the China. He's been to the Wall- did you know the Hoops is the only football strip that can be seen from outer space, and will be in Shanghai for the game on Sunday.

Any Chinahands, ould and otherwise, got any tips where he might go to see it? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger timgreen COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:01 COMMENT-BODY:test -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger timgreen COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:02 COMMENT-BODY:Hope its ok to repost - its a good cause.

I posted the other day about wee Liam Smyth - the wee boy aged 3 who has the body of a baby - and son of a good Celtic man, Robbie.

I've now found a link to a short video about Liam and details of how we can all donate to help.

Please rally round as the Celtic Family always does - here's a great family doing all they can for the wee boy they adore but they a wee boost from us.

I'm proud of them as I am of the whole Celtic Family!

Video: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/7355605.stm

To donate: http://www.littleliam.org.uk

They are not asking for much - just enough to get to the US to meet the experts in this very rare condition. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Paul67 COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:04 COMMENT-BODY:St Gris, see how panic starts? Let’s hold our nerve.

Inky bhoy, agree.

Plato, good to hear from you. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger St-Gris COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:10 COMMENT-BODY:Paul,
Aye ok - I feel like Corporal Jones - but i think i'll go through a few nails before the final whistle on Thursday.

How much do I need a Fiorentina performance.

"they dont like it up em Mr Mainwaring" -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Gordon_J COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:11 COMMENT-BODY:From tonight's Evening Times:

"CELTIC fear they could be hit for six if they are forced to postpone their final SPL game of the season until Thursday, May 22.

"Half a dozen of Gordon Strachan's players are scheduled to be on international duty by then, either for warm-up games ahead of Euro 2008 or for World Cup qualifying matches.

"Artur Boruc, Jan Vennegoor of Hesselink and Georgios Samaras are certain to be in the Polish, Dutch and Greek squads ahead of the Euro Finals in Austria and Switzerland.

"Holders Greece play Cyprus on the 19th and Hungary on the 24th, Holland play Ukraine on same night, while Poland play Macedonia two days later. Japan, Australia and New Zealand have World Cup qualifying games which will involve Shunsuke Nakamura, Scott McDonald and Chris Killen. If the season is extended, players may be forced to pull out of important matches and be denied recovery time."

Wonder what the relevant international managers think of teh SPL?? -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger St-Gris COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:15 COMMENT-BODY:Gordon,
Its not just that International managers can demand players get released for duty and Celtic have no comeback.

Its down to the individual manager to grant the players release. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Gordon_J COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:22 COMMENT-BODY:So our final game would have to be postponed because of the international call ups! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Bhoy Sean COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:25 COMMENT-BODY:They can't even give away this rubbish

they can't even give it away

:P

Good link Gordon_J, further proof which highlights the complete ineptitude of the SPL. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:27 COMMENT-BODY:EUFA & FIFA should be requested to comment on the SPL decision and the legitimacy of forcing through rule changes during the competition. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger patnevinspen COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:33 COMMENT-BODY:So, have I got this right? The season may be extended to help Rangers fixture congestion. But, in so doing, it means Celtic could be missing 6 top players in what may be the title deciding game?? If so, that's just so unfair. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Gordon_J COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:44 COMMENT-BODY:canamalar,

UEFA would simply say that it is a matter for the national association. So maybe we should complain to the SFA. Oh wait...

Perhaps the SPFA would intervene given that the players heading for the European Championships could potentially be placed in a club v country row. Oh wait ... -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Didas sore face COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:48 COMMENT-BODY:Patnevinspen

Don't worry about it, it's all taken care of, the SPL/SFA have thought of every eventuality, and it won't come to Celtic being so disadvantaged at a potentially crucial stage.

Their plan is simple, all you need to do to recognise their masterstroke is watch all the atrocious decisions carried out by their refereeing Department in the remainder of Celtic's games which result in Celtic losing points therefore ensuring that the last game of the season has no bearing on the outcome of the league.


Oh BTW watch out for the brillaint lack of coverage by the "impartial" media of these decisions.


Dida

C'mon The Hoops!!! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger patnevinspen COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:50 COMMENT-BODY:Didas sore face

Sadly, I think you are right. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:52 COMMENT-BODY:Gordon J,
FIFA & EUFA are the ruling bodies of the game and if they need to be reminded about their position then so be it, but for one of their affiliates to act in this way without condemnation or sanction must be questioned.
I still think the SPL & SFA should be reported to the office of fair trading and the trading standards authorities, and legal action should be taken regardless of the european ramifications. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger the right rev. david hay (preaching pure football) COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:55 COMMENT-BODY:my man at uefa ;-)
assures me that they will look into
season extensions rendering players unavailable for club or country with a very firm hand. due to the fact that they have previously told associations that this year due to the european championships leagues must finish on time or earlier than would be their usual finishing date.
this was the reason we could not have a winter shutdown this year i believe.
after next thursday, if the poorly organised and very low squad profile that is glasgow rangers are still in the uefa cup the big guns come out to play.
lawyers love to make money. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger porridgeandbananas COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:56 COMMENT-BODY:Did anyone really think that after seeing Pauls projected fixture list for Rangers the other day that anything other than an extension would be granted. Absolu
tely no way would they make their 'brothers' play the fixtures as they looked like they would pan out.

As for Rangers questioning the 'integrity' of the competition as no other Club would have been forced to play so many games at the end of the season? I would counter it by saying if any other Club had identical results, substandard pitch (E.Stritling), or games needlessly postponed then they too would have been made to play the matches as they came around.

What I am worried about though is that the fixtures have been put out a few days before the Glasgow derby knowing about the controversy this would bring. I fear we might take our eye off the ball as all the discussion about the extension only means something if we beat this rotten mob on Sunday. Anything else kills us off.

I have to say I don't share Pauls confidence in Firoentina. It could all come down to where their priorities lie. They are in the 4th CL place, only 4 points clear of Milan and Sampdoria with 4 to play. If they are fully focused on the UEFA then my confidence increases hugely, if they are looking at securing 4th place and accepting whatever happens in the UEFA then I fear Manchester Police will be stretched to the limit come the UEFA Final.

I just hope the old adage my dad used to tell me that 'Cheaters Never Win' holds true this year. The overly long diagnosis of MacGregor and the extra injury-time added (5mins instead of probable 3) shows that it may well do, seeing as we scored in the 94th min. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Didas sore face COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 11:58 COMMENT-BODY:Patnevinspen

On this occassion I hope I am completely wrong .........

But reviewing the events of the last few months....... I doubt it


Proove me wrong SPL/SFA/Media/Referees

and again

C'mon The Hoops!!!

Win the League and Shame the shameless!

3 in a row!! -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger dontbrattbackinanger COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 12:08 COMMENT-BODY:A competition that can teach the SPL the meaning of Integrity -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Bhoy Sean COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 12:15 COMMENT-BODY:6f 6 eh? He's certainly go the hight to be a good goal keeper

http://www.tribalfootball.com/article.php?id=89218 -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger Paul67 COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 12:22 COMMENT-BODY:new article posted. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger pablophanque COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 12:28 COMMENT-BODY:This post has been removed by the author. -------- COMMENT-AUTHOR:Blogger canamalar COMMENT-DATE:23/04/08 13:05 COMMENT-BODY:I would like to thank Celtic First and all other mineshafters and Strachan haters for their silence over the last week they have allowed the rest of us to try and put up a united front in the run in.
There will be plenty of opportunity to continue the debate post season and indeed next season no doubt.
Cheers Lhads --------