Kilmarnock call for Championship 'circuit breaker'

It's after new covid restrictions were announced.

Author: Natasha RichardsonPublished 22nd Dec 2021
Last updated 22nd Dec 2021

Kilmarnock Football Club is calling for a 'circuit breaker' in the Scottish Championship after new coronavirus restrictions were announced.

The First Minister said yesterday (Tuesday 21st December) crowds would be limited to a maximum of 500 people for three weeks from Boxing Day in a bid to slow the spread of the Omicron variant.

The SPFL is now holding discussions with football clubs about next steps.

Kilmarnock Director Cathy Jamieson told Clyde 1: "We would prefer to see something like a circuit breaker for a few weeks. We feel the current restrictions make it very difficult financially for clubs. It also isn't good for the fans to be away from football again.

"There are various talks underway and clubs have been asked for their views. Kilmarnock is feeding the information back on what we would prefer to happen, but ultimately it will be for the SPFL board to take a decision.

"We do hope that everyone listens to the views of the clubs and the fans. Public health is of course the most important aspect and the clubs want to do as much as possible to stop the spread of the virus. That's why we think, at this stage, common sense would say let's pause, find a way to reschedule these matches, and ensure public safety.

"Obviously a decision is needed as quickly as possible. Hopefully the other clubs and the SPFL will come to a quick decision to allow clubs to make plans. Also for fans who have already purchased tickets, they need to know what is happening. The sooner we get this decision, the better for everyone."

SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster declared the latest restrictions were a "hammer blow" to clubs with lower-league outfits having less room for manoeuvre given they have no winter break.

Doncaster added: "Our clubs have adapted quickly and effectively to previous restrictions and we will work with them in implementing the guidance from today's announcement in the coming days."

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