Gala FR and Vale seek to have fans allowed back

Gala Fairydean Rovers have made a submission to the Scottish Football Association (SFA), in the light of the Scottish Borders transfer into Level 1 of the Scottish Government’s Covid lockdown structure – while Vale of Leithen aims to follow suit.

Both clubs have been studying the regulations very carefully and hope they will be allowed to admit a maximum of 200 fans at their stadiums, while following the rules as assiduously as possible.

At Netherdale, Gala FR chairman Ryan Cass hoped the Braw Lads’ application would be agreed in time for their Scottish Cup first round match on Boxing Day – a big south of Scotland derby at home to Annan Athletic, from Ladbrokes League Two.

Mr Cass was fairly confident of success, as long as the Borders remained in tier one.

Gala FR was “keeping it local”, he added, to help with compliance and to make it as safe as possible for those who would hopefully be admitted.

There was signage at the ground, while the 200 would be restricted to Premier Club members only, who were easily tracked and traced with contact details.

If the SFA agreed, said Mr Cass, it would be “great for the town”, particularly those who enjoyed local sport, and “massive for everybody”. He added: “It’s been a painful few months – nearly a year now – for everybody, so this is just a wee release for people desperate to watch some sport. It’s great.”

Vale of Leithen vice-chairman John Anderson said the club was finalising its plan but it hoped to have 200 season ticket holders and those with pre-bought tickets back at Victoria Park in early 2021.