David Tanner has urged the Scottish Football Association to consider changing the kick-off time for the Rangers versus Celtic Scottish Cup final.
The Daily Mail reported on Tuesday (23 April) that the Old Firm derby at Hampden Park is set to go ahead at 3pm on 25 May.
That means it will be in direct competition with the Manchester United versus Manchester City FA Cup final showdown south of the border.
Reacting to that news on his personal X account [23 April], talkSPORT broadcaster Tanner said: “Surely, we can all cope with a 12.30 / 1pm Scottish Cup final?
“It’s been the standard slot for the Old Firm derby for over two decades. Having the biggest derby in Britain clash with the watered-down Manchester version is a global opportunity lost. It’ll be superb at any KO time!”
Tanner added: “Would it not be a good idea if one cup final moved FORWARD an hour or so and the other BACK an hour?
“The fans paying to go to Hampden & Wembley might also want to watch the other final on their mobiles or listen on @talkSPORT. Both nations have great finals, let’s all enjoy both!”
Scottish Cup final date and kick-off time
The Scottish FA was criticised in the past for moving the kick-off time of its flagship match to an early evening slot to avoid clashing with its English equivalent.
Like the English FA Cup, the 3pm start time is considered the traditional slot. It is unfortunate that the two fixtures clash, and Tanner is right in pointing out viewers will be lost.
It would no doubt have been tempting for Scottish football chiefs to shift the cup final to the next day, meaning it would get far more exposure from outside Scotland.
They have instead opted to stick with tradition, though, and ultimately those who do not support either Rangers or Celtic can make their own decision as to what they watch that day.
The midday kick-offs may have become the norm when it comes to Old Firm derbies, but this later start is far better for everyone involved – if not the authorities.
Fingers crossed for an entertaining game for those who do tune in, although all that ultimately matters is that the Gers come out on top.
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