Pittodrie Snubbed By SFA For Scots Opener

Last updated : 05 June 2006 By Stand Free Ed

Aberdeen has missed out on the chance to host Scotland's opening game in the qualifying for Euro 2008.

The SFA, who could have been hosting the tournament if they had taken their bid seriously, have chosen Celtic Park for the game versus the Faroe Islands with Hampden Park farcically unavailable for its primary purpose due to a pop concert.

However, the SFA has patronisingly informed North-East Scotland fans that wants to "reward" them by taking a meaningless friendly match to Pittodrie soon.

SFA Chief David Taylor told BBC Sport: "I would like to publicly acknowledge the strong bid from Aberdeen FC to stage the match at Pittodrie, but we anticipate the crowd for the opening match of the Euro 2008 campaign will require a larger stadium.

"However, there is great support for the national team in the north east of Scotland, and I would very much hope we will take Scotland's next home friendly match to Aberdeen."