The iconic atmosphere of the Glasgow Derby is set for a massive boost as Celtic supporters are reportedly set to be granted the entire Broomloan Stand for next month’s Scottish Cup quarter-final showdown at Ibrox.
According to a report by the Daily Record, the two clubs have thrashed out a deal for the March 8 clash that will see Hoops fans receive an allocation of approximately 7,500 tickets. This marks the first time since March 2018 that the entire section has been handed over to the visiting support for a derby fixture.
A Victory for Tradition
Celtic chiefs had made a significant push for a bumper allowance, citing SFA rules that allow visiting clubs to claim up to 20% of a stadium’s capacity for cup ties. While a full 10,000-ticket allocation was deemed unrealistic due to segregation and policing requirements, the 7,500-ticket compromise represents a major shift in the long-running ticket dispute between the Glasgow giants.
The move comes after years of slashed allocations, which saw away crowds dwindle to as few as 750 at both Ibrox and Celtic Park. While small increases were seen earlier this season, the “Full Broomloan” remains the gold standard for the spectacle of this fixture.
MON Welcomes “Greatest Fixture” Return
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill, who has been vocal about his desire to see the return of traditional away crowds, expressed his delight at the prospect of a packed away end.
“Just being a Celtic supporter, I would want all the tickets we can get,” O’Neill stated. “The fixture lost a little bit in the sense that the full allocation was not given. To get the full allocation as we did, going to Ibrox and having the side to the left full of Celtic fans, was always gratifying.”
The timing is particularly poignant for the Hoops, who are set to visit Govan for a Premiership encounter just seven days before the cup clash, where they will be backed by a smaller cohort of roughly 2,000 fans.
🗣️ THE BIG DEBATE: IS THE REAL DERBY ATMOSPHERE BACK?
The decision to restore the Broomloan to Celtic fans has divided opinion among the Ibrox faithful while energising the Parkhead support. We want to know your take:
- Is this a fair compromise for the “Magic of the Cup”?
- Will a 7,500-strong away end tip the scales in Celtic’s favour?
Sound off in the comments below! 👇
Co-Founder of Fitba Focus and MMA UK. A lifelong Rangers fan and former player, he combines over a decade of sports media experience with a deep-seated passion for the Scottish game. From the Ibrox stands to the lower-league terraces, Frankie is dedicated to providing honest, fan-led analysis of the full Scottish pyramid.
