The Scottish Cup final is set for a dinner time kick-off in a major victory for Celtic and Inverness Caledonian Thistle fans after broadcasters backtracked on plans for a lunchtime slot for the season showpiece.
It emerged both Viaplay and BBC were keen on a standalone start time for the June 3 clash at Hampden Park in a bid to avoid a clash with the mouthwatering Manchester derby FA Cup Final. That would have meant a switch from the traditional 3pm start for the version north of the border but news of that resulted in a furious supporter backlash.
It would have meant fans of the Highland club being forced to set off early in the morning to start their 340-mile around trip and also caused an inconvenience for Celtic fans travelling from further afield, particularly the large contingent who regularly make the trip from Ireland. But, a move also welcomed by the Scottish Football Association for their flagship competition, the idea has been scrapped.
Instead, the match will now kick off at around 5:30pm as Ange Postecoglou’s Celtic look to complete a domestic treble and Championship outfit Caley Thistle will aim to cause the biggest ever upset in the final.
An SFA statement reads: "The Scottish FA can confirm that the 2022/23 Men's Scottish Cup Final will take place between Celtic and Inverness Caledonian Thistle at Hampden Park on Saturday, June 3, with a 5.30pm kick-off.
"We would like to thank all parties for their support in ensuring a slot commensurate with Scottish football’s showpiece occasion. The match will be broadcast live on BBC One Scotland and on Viaplay."
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