Pure, athletic, Thatcherism

It’s all politics.  Not actual politics, in the strict definition of the word, but clubs’ dealings with the SPFL and SFA is mostly about politically manoeuvring in the direction to win your argument.

Experienced political operators will tell you not to fight the same people on too many points; pick the important areas to win and take a few defeats on the chin.  Box the SPFL into a corner by not charging season ticket holders for entry into play-off matches, and you’re onto a sure win.  But all SPFL clubs are members of the SFA.

They all like being given their place.  If I wanted something important from the SFA, like exemption from the rule prohibiting directors of a liquidated club from subsequently becoming a club director, I’d concentrate on that and ask politely for permission to let season ticket holders into games.

But I realise there are different types of political animal.  The consensus political animal is effective in certain times, then there are those who have a self-righteous tone to rules.  It’s their way or the highway.  To paraphrase Bob Shankly, pure, athletic, Thatcherism.  Britain wasn’t ready for Thatcherism 30 years ago.  She won in 1979 and lost lots of votes second time around in ’83, but the Labour vote split.  The 80s were lean.  For some.

Scottish football is in for a period where a self-righteous entity will muster its forces.  The media coverage will reflect what we saw in politics in the 80s.  The consensus operators must stand firm and unite.

Thanks to all who entered the Magners completion for premium tickets to the Dundee game tomorrow night, the winner will be notified within the next 30 mins, so check your email!