Scotland's World Cup qualification leads to calls for fan parks and late pub licences to show games

For fans to watch Scotland’s World Cup games, an MSP hopeful is calling for fan parks to be set up across the country and for pubs to get special dispensation to show late-scheduled Scotland games.

David Green, the Scottish Liberal Democrat candidate for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, hopes parks could host big screens to beam back the games from the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

His party is also calling for pubs to be given special late-night licenses to air Scotland’s games with kick off times expected to be as late as 5pm, 8pm, 11pm and 2am.

David Green, Scottish Liberal Democrat candidate for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, said:

“Scotland at a World Cup, can you believe it? I will be absolutely buzzing from now until kick-off. What a sensational game of football against Denmark. I am in awe of the never give up attitude from both Steve Clarke and his players.

“I remember the buzz of the 1998 World Cup and being allowed to stay up late for the Final, but little else. Next summer will be so special for so many Scotland fans. After years of glorious failure, we now have that story we dreamed of. We are there.

“Let's make the most of it. Government and councils should therefore work together to give fans the best experience.

“Fan parks could be set up across the country so we can watch our games on the big screens. When I was in Germany with the Tartan Army last year, they worked so well and became something special to remember. Pubs could also be given special dispensation to show the games if they are scheduled late.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat sport spokesperson, Neil Alexander, added:

“I could see people packing into community sports clubs. After a tough few years for pubs and clubs, what an opportunity this is for the government to work with them to make the most of this amazing achievement.”

ENDS.