Scotland fans are being robbed as call for games to be free on TV steps up

SCOTLAND fans are being “robbed” of the chance to cheer on their heroes amid renewed calls for games to be shown on telly.

UK government ministers and the SFA are being urged to step up to help supporters watch matches on free-to-air channels – after Steve Clarke’s side triumphed over Croatia and Poland in their Nation’s League campaign.

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The latest fixtures were available to watch for free on the YouTube channels of both broadcaster Viaplay and the Scotland national team.

However, concerns have been raised that not all fans are able to access the online service, with a fresh push for games to be shown on the BBC and STV.

SNP MSP George Adam said: “Scotland fans across the nation faced more difficulties watching the men’s national team this week – last night and on Friday evening, they were robbed of the opportunity to watch our country take on and beat Croatia and Poland.

“Fans are being let down, especially the next generation of young Scottish footballers who should be getting inspired by the likes of John McGinn, Andy Robertson and Scott McTominay.

“Now is the time to address the issue.”

Norwegian broadcaster Viaplay holds the rights to all Scotland men’s national team matches until 2028.

It sold the rights to matches against Portugal and Poland in September this year to ITVX, which the BBC had also bid for.

However, Viaplay opted against selling the rights to the latest round of matches.

Clarke’s side are not due to take part in a competitive fixture until next year, with a Nations League play-off in March.

Veteran broadcaster Jim Delahunt – a former Scotsport presenter – said during the match: “We’re on YouTube with no presenter and no analysis. Absolute disgrace.”

Scottish Tory shadow culture secretary Murdo Fraser urged the Scottish Football Association to work with broadcasters on the issue.

He said: “After the success of the men’s national team, fans will be even keener than ever to cheer the team on.

“Most people would like to see the SFA work closely with broadcasters to ensure that fans who can’t be at the match in person get the opportunity to watch important games free to view.”

Alba Party general secretary Chris McEleny, who attended the match in Warsaw on Monday evening, also weighed in on the issue.

He said: “I’ve been privileged to be able to follow Scotland home and away for many years, but there is a sour taste of late that so many back home are missing out.

“No other country in the world has such poor access to watch their national football team for free on TV.

“It does beg the question of what is the point of BBC Scotland and STV if they don’t show Scotland matches? It’s time for action to make sure they do.”

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