We are all aware that clubs in Scotland are constantly looking for opportunities to increase their revenues and where possible cut their operating costs, possibly most noticeably in the area of players wages.
Couple this with the shirt sponsorship that alcohol companies have with SPL clubs in particular then you can easily see the impetus behind the calls for a return to alcohol sales in grounds. It all makes economic sense on the surface, but as we know football is never simply about economics it goes much deeper into the social fabric of our country.
Scotland has long had the reputation as the home of hardened drinkers and indeed political statements from all political parties on the subject of problem and binge drinking seem to appear on a daily basis. So why would it make any sense top re-introduce alcohol sales into football grounds ?
Well it can be argued that such sales already exist within the grounds in the arena which is "Corporate Hospitality" and this is true, but does that justify to the sale of booze to you and I not normally the lucky recipients of such hospitality ?
Lest we forget the ban was introduced post the shameful scenes after the 1980 Scottish Cup Final, a game I had the misfortune to be at. The trouble was blamed on excessive alcohol intake by some fans added to the usual tensions which exist between the clubs. The resolution to this was not to seriously tackle bigotry and sectarianism but rather to ban the fuel of alcohol.
The ban hasn't stopped people going to games drunk I doubt any ban would ever stop that and as long as it isn't excessive I have no problem in fans having a drink before and after the game. Heaven knows I used to do it myself on a regular basis, however where it endangers or impinges on the enjoyment of the game for other fans I do have an issue with it.
As for general sales of alcohol in the ground I think whilst economically this would be of benefit to clubs it would be at a social cost which would far outweigh the economics. John Boyle recounts the fact that at the rugby at Firhill you can take your pint back to your seat and enjoy the game and your drink. That may well work at Fir Park John where there is normally lots of space to spread out in, but can you imagine it at a full Celtic Park or indeed Ibrox ? No neither can I.
Indeed perhaps Mr Boyle should consult with the various police forces and accident and emergency units across the country before suggesting the ban be lifted. I suspect he already knows what their answers will be.