Scottish Government minister Emma Roddick adds to voices criticising Scottish FA over Inverness Caley Thistle cup final kick off time

Scottish Government minister for equalities, migration and refugees Emma Roddick has followed fellow SNP member Drew Hendry in writing to the Scottish FA in protest over the kick off time for the Scottish Cup final.

Confirmation that the showpiece match will kick off at 5.30pm on Saturday, June 3 was met with plenty of criticism from within the Caley Jags, and outside the club.

Now Roddick, MSP for the Highlands and Islands and an Inverness season ticket holder, has released an open letter to the Scottish FA asking the governing body to reconsider.

"I am writing following the announcement that the Scottish Cup Final taking place on June 3 between Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC and Celtic FC will kick off at the later time of 5.30pm, to urge you to reconsider this decision," the letter, addressed to Scottish FA chief executive officer Ian Maxwell, reads.

"As a season ticket holder, I cannot stress enough how disappointing this is for so many fans of Inverness Caledonian Thistle, who face a very difficult decision in having to pay out hundreds of pounds in hotel costs or miss out on seeing their team playing on this momentous occasion.

"As you will be aware, the last train connection from Mount Florida to Inverness on that day leaves before what will likely be full time, unless the game goes to extra time.

"This means that any fans travelling back to Inverness by train would have to leave the game early in any case, missing out on celebrations as well as, potentially, the winning goal or penalties.

"Anyone driving will have to contend with getting home in the wee hours of the morning. This is a safety risk as well as an inconvenience.

"It is unacceptable to most fans that the fixture, traditionally kicking off at 3pm, has been moved for the sake of not clashing with another country's fixture.

"I am aware that both clubs have stated their opposition to this timing and urge you in the strongest possible terms to reconsider."

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