Rangers aspirations of securing double delight this season have been made far more likely following announcements this afternoon.
It means that we are set for clarity on – and a resumption of – the Scottish Cup.
The lifting of the suspension of most lower league football in Scotland was confirmed by First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon.
This was followed up by an announcement from the Scottish FA.
NEWS | We welcome news from the First Minister that @SWPL 1 and @SPFL Leagues One and Two can return to football activity immediately, with the Scottish Cup also being given approval to resume.https://t.co/Klc4BEAK3c
— Scottish FA (@ScottishFA) March 2, 2021
A statement from Hampden included:
“The Scottish FA welcomes news from the First Minister that Scottish Women’s Premier League 1 and SPFL League One and Two can return to football activity immediately.”
“The parameters under which that return is allowed follows discussions between the Scottish FA and representatives of each league and based on the current SPFL Premiership and Championship Joint Response Group Protocols, including a requirement to undertake PCR testing once per week.”
“The Scottish Cup has also been given approval to resume, with all clubs in the competition given permission to participate subject to compliance with PCR testing requirements.”
“Revised Scottish Cup fixture dates will be announced as soon as possible.”
This is a key phrase but the obvious issue is when.
Proposals had already been made and plans drawn up for an ‘end of season tournament-style’ format as well as the possibility of pushing the 20-21 tournament bck into next season but that option but surely be a last resort.
Further news will be expected very soon as clubs will want to know where they stand and to make the necessary preparations.
Mairi Gougeon, Minister for Public Health and Sport was quoted as stating:
“We are aware of the importance of football, at all levels, to many people in Scotland and I’m happy that we have been able to work closely with the Scottish FA to allow the resumption of some further football activity – starting with SPFL Leagues 1 and 2, SWPL1 and clubs still in this season’s Scottish Cup.”
“This could only happen alongside enhanced measures to keep everyone safe, including mandatory weekly COVID PCR tests for all players and staff.”
All remaining levels of football yet to get the go-ahead to resume will be subject to ongoing reviews in line with the Scottish administration’s further calls amid the Covid crisis.