In a recent announcement by ViaPlay, Celtic is scheduled to play against Buckie Thistle in the early rounds of the Scottish Cup. The fixture is set for January 21st, falling on a Sunday, with a kick-off time of 4pm. This timing, considered unusual for a game of this nature, is a point of contention among the Celtic supporters.

The choice of a late Sunday afternoon for a match against a team from the Highland League, like Buckie Thistle, has been met with some disappointment. Fans argue that such scheduling discourages a larger turnout, as Sunday evenings are typically reserved for family time or preparation for the upcoming work week. The timing seems even more peculiar given the lower-tier status of the opposition, which usually attracts fewer spectators.

This decision by ViaPlay, the broadcaster responsible for airing the game, continues their trend of selecting what many deem ‘weirdest kick-off times’. Their approach to scheduling has been a hot topic among the Celtic faithful, often sparking debates about the implications for fan attendance and overall matchday experience.

Despite these concerns, Celtic can find some solace in their robust home cup ticket scheme. The scheme ensures a substantial number of tickets are sold in advance, with projections suggesting sales could surpass 30,000 for this fixture.

The upcoming game is crucial for Celtic as they aim to progress in the Scottish Cup, a tournament they continue to enjoy great success in.

The peculiar timing of the match raises questions about the balance between broadcasting demands and the interests of the fans. As Celtic prepares to take on Buckie Thistle, the focus remains on securing a win and advancing in the competition,