Celtic fans have accused the SFA of double standards after they were refused the opportunity to unveil a tifo before their Scottish Cup semi-final showdown against Rangers on Sunday.
That is despite Hearts supporters preparing a flag display for their own last four derby clash against Hibs.
However, Record Sport can reveal that the short stadium turnaround time between the two huge fixtures simply made any fan plans for Sunday’s game a non-starter.
Supporters are usually granted access to the stadium on the eve of the match to prepare the display but with the Edinburgh rivals in action today that wasn't possible for Celtic, or indeed Rangers, fans.
Ahead of Saturday’s semi-final Hearts Twitter account @ThisMyStoryPod said “TIFO TIME! If you are behind the goal, corner flag to corner flag, we need your help making the display look as amazing as it can.
“Be in the stadium 10 minutes before kick off and hold up whatever is on your set for the teams coming out. Let’s paint Hampden maroon!”
That was met with criticism from Celtic fans on social media after the Parkhead side’s fan group North Curve recently said they had been denied a tifo opportunity.
One supporter wrote: “Hold on so Hearts are allowed tifo but we aren’t?”
But and SFA source said: “There were operational and logistical issues in turning the stadium around between one semi final and another within 24 hours.”
