Inverness Caley Thistle fans demand cheaper Scottish Cup tickets against Celtic due to late kick-off
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Inverness Caledonian Thistle Supporters Trust are calling on the Scottish FA to reduce the price of Scottish Cup final tickets after confirming the game will kick-off in the evening.
The Scottish FA confirmed the kick-off for the final between Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Celtic will be on Saturday, June 3 at 5.30pm rather than the traditional time of 3pm.
The kick-off is being moved to avoid clashing with the English FA Cup final between Manchester City and Manchester United at 3pm.
Both Caley Thistle and Celtic called for the match to be played at 3pm and announced their disappointment to the confirmation of the 5.30pm kick off.
Inverness Caledonian Thistle Supporters Trust have condemned the move, stating it will rule out fans being able to use rail travel to return home from the game on the same night.
Trust spokesman John West says the Scottish FA should consider reducing the price of tickets to compensate the late kick-off time.
The price of tickets for the 2023 final have not yet been released, but at last year's final between Hearts and Rangers, prices ranged between £30 and £40.
West said: "We would wish to object in the strongest terms as we feel that the SFA are being disrespectful to Scottish football fans.
"It is especially galling coming from an organisation which purports to support Scottish football and the fans of the game.
"The timing of the match is presumably determined by the financial implications but to the detriment of the fans.
"The decision means that Inverness fans cannot utilise rail travel as there will be no way to return to Inverness that night.
"This will increase the road traffic, with the attendant additional risks.
"In light of their decision, made without any consultation, they should consider a reduction in the ticket price."
After the announcement was made, fans reacted to the 5.30pm kick-off time on the Inverness Courier Facebook site.
One person wrote: "Absolute disgrace no care for Inverness fans up North."
Another wrote: "Absolute disgrace for Inverness fans, What a ridiculous time and with families going absolutely shocking no consideration for any one."
Another fan wrote: "Scottish clubs treated appallingly again both Inverness and Celtic fans put last in consideration of travelling arrangements."
