GLASGOW TO HOST ALL-EDINBURGH SEMI

By Ian Rodgers, PA Sport

The Tennent's Scottish Cup semi-final between Hearts and Hibernian will be played at Hampden Park.

However the Federation of Hearts Supporters Clubs secretary has urged the club to appeal against the decision.

The Tynecastle club had requested Murrayfield be considered as a possible venue for the derby cup tie on April 2, which will kick off at 12.15pm.

But Hibernian manager Tony Mowbray had questioned the neutrality of the 67,800-seater rugby stadium after the Jambos played UEFA Cup games at Murrayfield in 2004.

The Scottish Rugby Union have already offered the ground as a possible venue. However, the Scottish Football Association board have decided to keep the semi-final in Glasgow.

Hearts have stated their intention to "respect" the decision but Federation secretary John Borthwick is hoping the club will think again.

He said: "It is one thing the SFA saying the decision has been made but I would like to know what circumstances they took into consideration before making it.

"It is a long time between now and April 2 when the game will be played and I would like to see at least, if nothing else, the club appeal against the decision.

"I know Hearts asked that the game be played at Murrayfield but I would like to know what the decision was based on.

"I can understand the club saying they respect the decision but, from a supporter's point of view, there is a lot of time between now and April 2 where we can get together and try to influence against the decision."

A Tynecastle spokesperson said earlier today: "We are more than happy to play the semi-final at Hampden.

"We asked the SFA to consider the option of Murrayfield as it would have been more convenient for supporters.

"It would also have allowed more of them to attend the game and, as such, would have alleviated any travel issues.

"The SFA considered our request and feel the match should be at Hampden and we respect their decision."

Hearts director of football Jim Duffy had already predicted the semi-final would not be switched to the home of Scottish rugby.

But he is adamant the supporters will still flock to Hampden for the semi.

Duffy said: "We are just delighted to be in the semi-final and are looking forward to a great game at Hampden.

"I'm sure the fans will turn out in big numbers as they have done all season."

Hibernian have voiced their contentment with the SFA decision.

An Easter Road spokesman said: "Our position has always been we will play wherever the SFA tell us to. We are just happy they have made the decision.

"It is an SFA competition and we have no problem with playing at Hampden."

The SFA board of directors voted unanimously to stage the all-Edinburgh tie in Glasgow.

But Hearts general secretary and operations director Campbell Ogilvie was not involved in discussions over the venue.

SFA chief executive David Taylor said: "Over the past few days, we have conducted a thorough investigation which included consultations with the clubs, police and relevant authorities.

"Sporting considerations require that the semi-finals of our national cup competition are played at a neutral venue, acceptable to both clubs and the SFA, as competition organisers.

"This test has not been satisfied as far as the Murrayfield option is concerned. Hampden Park, on the other hand, is a tried-and-tested UEFA five-star venue, which has been designed to stage major football events.

"The police and relevant authorities have indicated that they are content for the Hibs v Hearts semi-final to take place at Hampden.

"In addition to these sporting and event management considerations, it is only right to observe that Scottish football has made a long-term commitment to Hampden Park to support its use as a venue for major cup and international matches.

"We now all look forward to the eagerly-anticipated conclusion to this year's Tennent's Scottish Cup competition."

The semi-final between Gretna and the winners of the Dundee v Hamilton replay on Thursday will also be staged at Hampden on April 1.

Taken from sportinglife.com