Promotion ‘key to future of SPL

[PrsosPonytail 174]

From the evening times.

The SPL have identified a need for more promotion and relegation in a restructured top league to breathe new life – and, hopefully, finance – into the flagging Scottish game.

They are currently examining how systems work in other European countries, and hope to be in a position to present their plans to the 12 member clubs of our top flight at the end of this season.

However, SPL bosses appreciate there remains the huge obstacle of getting the 10 votes they need to implement any changes, which might include increasing the number of clubs in the top division to 16.

SPL chief executive Neil Doncaster explained initial soundings have already taken place, and he is hopeful any new proposals would receive a good hearing.

He said: “We’ve had discussions with six leagues in Europe so far, and the biggest lesson learned is that refreshment comes through increased promotion and relegation.

“In Scotland, we have the lowest relegation out of anywhere in Europe, just one team from 12, and that’s something we need to address.

“We hope to take things forward at the next SPL board meeting in May, then there’s the general meeting in June.”

Doncaster believes he can sense a willingness to at least consider proposals and added: “There’s definitely an appetite for change in the Scottish game.

“We are committed to looking at changes which will not only improve the standard of football, but also bring more money in, so that the commercial side is not neglected.”

Lets be honest here, money is king in this league, they don't give a fuck about the standard of football. Most clubs are far too fucking greedy. The poor crowds are more to do with the costs rather than the stuff on show. Drop the prices, get the crowds in and try to get a bit of atmosphere into these ghost stadiums. Nothing worse when you can hear individual cries echo round a half empty stadium.

[RM Monitor And Standards Officer 112,901]

Dont understand why the play offs arent introduced from the 1st to the spl, if like gretna a couple of years back have 10 points and are doomed the rest of the teams have fk all to play for. The 2nd bottom club should play a play off against the 4th place team in the 1st and then 2 and 3rd play off. It would make it that bit more exciting and get the crowds up if your team can still make the spl

[PrsosPonytail 174]

I remember attending the partick thistle dundee utd play off years ago. Was a cracking game with a massive crowd at firhill. Christian Dailly scored a late equaliser i think.

[RM Monitor And Standards Officer 112,901]

I remember attending the partick thistle dundee utd play off years ago. Was a cracking game with a massive crowd at firhill. Christian Dailly scored a late equaliser i think.

thats it mate and tbh it gives the teams from 6th to 8th in the 1st the chance to get into that 4th place, however i do think we should have the spl, 1st and 2nd scrap the 3rd and have 2 biggish leauges of 16 and invite 2 other sides to join the leauges, but who will listen to me lol