Aberdeen FC have been sanctioned with a 500-ticket reduction for their Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers at Hampden Park. The SPFL issued the penalty on Friday following two serious incidents during the Dons' quarter-final win at Kilmarnock on 12 September.
The governing body confirmed the sanction was for a large-scale, organised pyrotechnics display and a pitch incursion by Aberdeen supporters at Rugby Park. The club is required to cover the cost of the 500 tickets, which reduces the number available for fans for the semi-final on Saturday 31 October.
Reputational risk and further action
In a club statement, Aberdeen FC warned that such behaviour risks damaging its reputation and limiting fellow supporters' access to major fixtures. The statement reminded fans that using pyrotechnics or entering the field without authorisation can lead to criminal proceedings, football banning orders, and being prohibited from attending matches at Pittodrie and away grounds.
"We therefore ask all supporters to consider the consequences of their actions and to help protect the matchday experience for everyone," Aberdeen FC said.
The club added that further breaches will likely result in more severe sanctions, including additional ticket allocation cuts and financial penalties. The Dons progressed from that contentious tie at Rugby Park with a 3-1 penalty shootout victory after a 1-1 draw. That cup win is part of a broader run of form that has seen the team secure eight points from their first seven Premiership matches, placing them seventh in the current standings. Barry Robson's squad, will look to improve on that position when they host St Johnstone at Pittodrie on 11 October in their next league fixture.
The semi-final against Rangers at the national stadium will proceed with the reduced Aberdeen allocation, while Hearts and Hibs contest the other last-four tie. The final of the competition is scheduled for Sunday 13 December.
This story first appeared at Aberdeen FC
