Old Firm presence in Lowland League gains formal approval

The move, which had already attracted support from the majority of Lowland League clubs, was rubber-stamped last night at the League’s annual general meeting.

The arrangement is due to last one season only and will see ‘Colts’ teams from Celtic and Rangers taking part in the Lowland League, having each paid £25,000 to join up. They’ll be playing alongside Borders sides Gala Fairydean Rovers, Vale of Leithen and Berwick Rangers.

Earlier this month, all member clubs took part in a discussion with representatives from both Celtic and Rangers before an indicative vote.

League chairman, George Fraser, said: “The member clubs have voted in favour of this proposal that was put to them earlier this month.

“While it wasn’t unanimous, the majority of member clubs are in favour of it and, ultimately, the members made the decision, which is only right in a democracy.

“Our board will now get to work on moving forward with plans to get the new season started on July 17.”

Proponents of the scheme felt it would help member clubs progress and be good financially and in terms of media exposure for the Lowland League.

However, critics felt it could set an uncomfortable precedent was detrimental to the league’s pyramid structure, adding the Old Firm teams should work their way through the system like other clubs had to do.