Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

Lowland League club details reasons for Celtic, Rangers & Hearts B team no vote

East Stirlingshire have detailed their decision to vote against allowing B teams into the Lowland League.

Despite their feelings, the inclusion of Celtic, Rangers, and Hearts' B teams in next season's competition was last night confirmed.

The majority of Lowland League sides voted in favour of the Premiership side's 'Colt' teams returning again.

A short statement on The Park's Motor Group Scottish Lowland League social media account confirming the decision read: "We can confirm that members have voted in favour of including B teams for season 2023/24.

"This vote comes following the Pyramid Review undertaken by the Scottish FA this season."

Spartans won the division, with the Hoops and Gers finishing second and third respectively, while the Jambos managed a 13th-spot finish in the league.

While Celtic, Rangers & Hearts' young guns will return for another crack of the whip, East Stirlingshire have revealed the reasons for opposing the move.

A statement reads: "East Stirlingshire have tonight, alongside other SLFL clubs, been asked to vote for the inclusion of B teams for season 2023/24.

"Together as a club we will be voting NO. As we look to build a new era for East Stirlingshire we want the foundation to be built on integrity, support and to lead the way on sustainability.

"We as a club believe the proposed inclusion of B teams and the subsequent birth of a conference league, which we feel is being forced upon us, is not in the best interest of Scottish football and only highlights and benefits the might of the big clubs at the expense of the smaller club.

"From small acorns grow great oak trees with which lower league football plays a huge part and should be given the opportunity of building a foundation to stand on their own merit for the future of Scottish football.

"What Scottish football requires is a properly constructed and ventilated pyramid structure that allows all clubs to find their competitive level. Talk's cheap, action wins the day."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.