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SPFL Sets Post-Split Run-In With Potential CelticHearts Finale on May 16

Split rules plus police and TV limits produced a schedule with Falkirk on 20 home games, raising fairness concerns.

Overview

  • The SPFL, which unveiled the post-split slate on Tuesday, set a final day of Celtic vs Hearts on May 16 with Rangers away to Falkirk after Police Scotland ruled out an Old Firm decider.
  • The 12-team league splits after 33 games into top six and bottom six so each club reaches 38 matches by playing five more within its section.
  • Fixture reversals to manage derbies and venues leave Falkirk on 20 home games and Livingston on 18, with all top-six switches tied to Falkirk as explained by SPFL executive Calum Beattie.
  • Celtic have three home dates in the run-in and kick off before their rivals in the first two rounds due to TV picks, which critics from Hearts and Rangers circles say hands them an edge.
  • Fans now face tight away allocations for a possible decider at Celtic Park and analysts note Falkirk’s extra home date could influence European places if the Bairns remain in the mix.