Crusaders have no issues with the SPFL scheduling their Irn-Bru Cup semi-final with Caley Thistle on a Sunday evening.
As soon as the Danske Bank Premiership leaders were informed the game would be played on February 18, they requested the kick-off be put back from its proposed time of 4.30pm to allow them to travel from Belfast by scheduled flight. They are flying back the day after.
The game will be televised by BBC Alba and yesterday Caley Jags expressed their disappointment at the date and time of the game to the SPFL, saying it failed to consider the needs of both sets of supporters.
However Crusaders treasurer Tommy Whiteside said the club has no qualms with the date and it suited the arrangements they have made.
He said: “When we were told it was going to be a Sunday game, we requested the kick-off be put back by 45 minutes as we wanted to travel by scheduled flight. It suits us because there’s no direct flights from Belfast on Saturday and we were never asked to play on that date.
“The decision to play on the Sunday was made by TV and the SPFL and we asked for it to be put back slightly. The scheduled flight there is full and quite a few of our supporters are making their way via Manchester or Birmingham.”
Crusaders saw off Dundee United to reach the last four and Whiteside added they were in the competition to win it.
He said: “Financially it’s not massive for us – it’s more about taking part and winning it. It would be fantastic to do that.”
Caley Thistle published a letter addressed to SPFL secretary Iain Blair yesterday criticising the Sunday scheduling, adding they have lost money from the competition this season and should it go ahead next year, it should be “significantly more advantageous” to clubs and supporters.
Manager John Robertson expressed anger last week at the club missing out financially through attendances and the lack of consultation over the decision.
The other semi-final between The New Saints and Dumbarton is being shown on S4C at 7.35pm on Saturday February 17.
An SPFL spokesman said: “We have received Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s letter and will address the points raised directly with the club.”
Inverness’ game with Dunfermline Athletic, which would have taken place on February 17, has been rearranged for Tuesday March 6 with a 7.45pm kick-off.
