CELTIC will be watched by a meagre total of 1,400 fans in the first two games after the Premiership fixtures was revealed today.
The champions are one win away from a second successive title, but only a lucky few of the club’s supporters are likely to be in attendance to see their favourites achieve the feat.
The Hoops’ first encounter in the five-game run-in to the conclusion of the league campaign will be against Hearts at Tynecastle on Sunday May 7 where supporters have been allocated a small section of the stand.
PENSIVE…Ange Postecoglou speaks about the SPFL split at Lennoxtown today. Image courtesy of Celtic TV.
That will be followed by the trip to Ibrox the following Saturday for the fourth and final Glasgow league derby of the crusade. Of course, away fans are locked out of this fixture.
Celtic will have to wait for the third match to play at Parkhead when St Mirren are the visitors on Saturday May 20.
That is followed by a match against Hibs four days later before the curtain comes down on the league with a home match against Aberdeen on May 27 when the trophy will be presented.
It could be viewed as bizarre scheduling from the SPFL hierarchy in conjunction with the broadcasters and Police Scotland.
The point is made by boss Ange Postecoglou, who said: “It’s always a bit of a challenge for those doing it.
“I would’ve liked to have had at least one home game in those first two, because it means that our supporters won’t see us for three weeks.
“It would’ve been nice, but, ultimately, it is what it is and we’ve just got to deal with what’s before us.
“And, in terms of the league, that’s going to Hearts away, who have got a new manager with Steven in, and they had a great result last week, so it’s always a challenge at Tynecastle anyway.
“It will be a good place to go and win it because we’re going have to earn it to do it.”
I DID IT MY WAY…Ange Postecoglou addresses the Celtic fans on Flag Day at Parkhead on May 14 last year.
The team need just one win to secure the flag and Postecoglou, speaking to Celtic TV, added: “It’s pleasing that we’re in this position, it’s the position you want to be in where winning the title is in your hands.
“It’s a credit to the players and the staff and a testament to their consistency, performance and obviously results that we find ourselves with five games to go, needing just a win.
“So, I’m really pleased with that, but, again, we haven’t done the job yet and there’s no reason to dismiss any of these games.
“Moving forward, we want to make sure we finish the season strong.”
