Celtic FC

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This edition of my blog focuses on the failings of Celtic to provide a decent away day; it may prove to be controversial considering my positive take on Ibrox, but I assure you I am completely indifferent between the two.


Travelling to Celtic is a two-sided coin; on one side, compared to other grounds, it is easy which is a given considering it is located in Glasgow and only requires a short train journey to get there and costs just £1.90 for a return. However, the other side to this is, when comparing it to Rangers, I personally believe that the train journey required is not just as easy considering the use of the subway for Rangers (which has to be the best in the world based on it's simplicity). On top of this, as expected, the queues to use the train are a nightmare after, and sometimes before, the game. In reference to pre-match, the ability to stay in the city centre relatively late-on and choose whatever watering hole you wish is a plus - again, spoons is the usual suspect for myself.

In terms of the actual stadium, Celtic Park or Parkhead, I think that although it is clear that Celtic have worked hard to create a fantastic area surrounding the stadium, which gives the impression of a top team; the stadium itself is not as aesthetically appealing as Ibrox, with Parkhead feeling very industrial. Inside the stadium is where the main problems arise, a minor factor is that - as expected - it is relatively quite expensive (£3.50 programme, £2.40 tea etc), however, the main problem is the view. Unless youre quick to get your ticket, chances are you'll be forced to buy a 'restricted view' seat. In effect, what this means is that your view will be blocked by a structural pillar that covers half of the pitch; so, if its the side your team is attacking you're bored and if it's the side Celtic is attacking, realistically, you won't see the ball for 45 minutes. (Potential slight over exaggeration)


Image result for celtic park pillar



And don't get me started about the light show.

To be fair to Celtic, there are a couple of good points about the day out. Firstly, I personally like the seating area in that it's close to the Celtic fans; what this means is that its very easy to enjoy a wind-up of the very passionate Celtic fans if all else fails. Secondly, whilst I can't remember the quality, the queues for the tea bars are normally reasonable and offer a lot of choice, although the only reasonable thing to eat during a game is a pie.

Overall, Celtic as a day out isn't the worst in the league but considering that, in reality, you're going to get beat of both old firms - if you can only attend one I would personally choose Ibrox.

If you enjoyed this instalment, check out my previous blog here: https://scottishawaydays.blogspot.com/2019/11/livingston-fc.html

Image result for celtic park

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