The Scottish Football League could reach a decision as early as Tuesday on "how to deal with" Third Division Elgin City, after the club’s match with Rangers was called off because too many tickets had been sold, according to Stuart Bathgate of the SCOTSMAN. SFL CEO David Longmuir reiterated that the postponement had been made "in the interests of public safety," and said that he was optimistic other clubs "would avoid actions similar to Elgin’s." Longmuir will announce any disciplinary action after he receives reports from his own staff and from Elgin. Longmuir: "We’ll make a judgment on Elgin once we see a full report." The SFL also plans to warn clubs about "drastic increases of prices for the visit of Rangers" (SCOTSMAN, 11/26).
MAKING AN EXAMPLE: In Glasgow, Gavin Berry reported Elgin had raised its ticket prices by 50% for Sunday’s "ill-fated clash" at Borough Briggs, and now Queen’s Park is "inflating the fees" for its match with Rangers next month. The most expensive adult ticket is usually £12 ($19), so Rangers fans "were angry" to see tickets selling for £15 ($24) and £20 ($32). Longmuir said: "I'll be taking steps to remind clubs of recommended minimum prices that we have always applied in Division Three. I will make that reminder as forceful as I can. I agree it’s profiteering." Longmuir refused to discuss the severity of the sanctions available, but believes that whatever punishment is delivered, the "fallout from this shambles has already made an example of Elgin" (DAILY RECORD, 11/26).
