JOINT CLUB STATEMENT

FORFAR ATHLETIC v LINLITHGOW ROSE – WILLIAM HILL SCOTTISH CUP FOURTH ROUND REPLAY

TUESDAY 26TH JANUARY – KICK-OFF 7.45p.m.

Forfar Athletic and Linlithgow Rose will make a second attempt on Tuesday night at Station Park to play their William Hill Scottish Cup replay, after the unfortunate electrical problems within the ground that contributed to floodlight failure and the eventual abandonment of the fixture last midweek.

The game on Tuesday of last week was also marred by crowd disorder including the release of smoke bombs and the throwing of flares from a section of the covered terracing a most worrying aspect which has no place in our game.

These incidents are now the subject of enquiries by Police Scotland and the Scottish Football Associaition.

Both Forfar Athletic and Linlithgow Rose officials hope that tomorrow’s night’s clash will be enjoyed by a healthy support from both clubs as well as any neutrals who are in attendance.

This was undoubtedly the case in the original tie played in a great spirit and in an almost carnival atmosphere in front of a crowd in excess of 2,000 at Prestonfield earlier in the month.

Sadly but with the safety of all spectators in mind,  following last week’s events, there will be a much larger police presence on Tuesday night both inside and outside the ground , as well as increased stewarding.

This of course will impact on the finances of the host club.

The turnstiles will be open at 7p.m. prompt and spectators are urged to arrive as early as possible.   Where police or stewards deem it necessary spectators may be searched prior to entering the ground.

In conclusion the message to all is please come along to what hopefully will be a great evening’s entertainment, support your side whether it be the ‘Loons’ or the ‘Rose’ in the proper manner and at the end of ninety minutes or if extra time and penalties  are required, may the best team on the night progress to the fifth round of that wonderful competition with such great tradition, the Scottish Cup.

Alastair Donald – Chairman, Forfar Athletic FC

Leslie Donaldson – President Linlithgow Rose FC

Match Commander Chief Inspector Mike Whitford said,

“Police Scotland will be assisting and supporting an increased number of stewards at the match between Forfar Athletic FC and Linlithgow Rose FC at Station Park tomorrow evening.

“The increased presence of officers and stewards is unfortunately due to the conduct of a small number of individuals at the previous abandoned match, where a number of flares and smoke bombs were let off.  

“As a result, those attending should be aware that there will be searches taking place at the ground to prevent any such items being taken in again. Anyone found in possession of any pyrotechnics at this match will be arrested.

“This is a great sporting event for both clubs and officers and stewards are there to ensure your safety.  I want football to be the main focus of the night and not the behaviour of a minority of supporters. 

“If you have any concerns about the conduct of others please don't hesitate to bring it to the attention of the stewards or any Police officer at the time and I hope you have a fantastic night.”