Hibs take control of derby tickets
The Easter Road club already sell briefs to away fans for matches against Celtic and Rangers following a dispute over the Old Firm’s attempts to charge a 5 per cent levy for their role in the process.
However, the move to issue tickets direct to Hearts supporters for the 2 January meeting is an exceptional one and comes at a time when the Gorgie outfit have admitted they are struggling with cash flow worries. Having had to wait 19 days for their October salaries, the first-team squad at Tynecastle are still awaiting their November pay that was due on the 16th of the month, with the recent settlement of a £1 million tax bill being partly blamed for the problems.
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Hide AdBoth Edinburgh clubs announced the ticketing arrangements simultaneously yesterday, with officials stressing both parties had approved the move. But if it is understood Hearts’ financial situation was a consideration, Hibs managing director Fife Hyland refused to be drawn, insisting: “Operationally, it’s in line with all our other category A games and it has been done with the agreement of both clubs.”
Tickets went on sale yesterday, with Hearts fans restricted to one per person.