Scottish football game announcement leaves more than 80,000 players devastated

IT’S the end of the football season across the leagues in Scotland – and the end of an era off it too.

In terms of mobile phone app users and fans of the SPFL, that is.

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Online community Fantasy Football Scotland gave would-be football bosses a game to play with a Scottish twist – constructing squads using players from across the Scottish top flight.

Points were awarded for goals, appearances and assists – but deducted for yellow cards, red cards or early substitutions.

It made the likes of James Tavernier, Kevin van Veen and Regan Charles-Cook must-haves and was played by more than 80,000 users over four seasons.

But in an unexpected move the plug has suddenly been pulled on the app.

An announcement on Twitter broke the ‘devastating’ news to players across the country.

“After four successful seasons, Fantasy Football Scotland has come to an end.

“Over 80,000 fans played the game and we’re thankful to everyone who downloaded the app and picked a team, not to mention the podcasters and tweeters who helped create such a vibrant #FFScotland community.

“This wasn’t an easy decision to make, but the financial reality of continuing FFS for another season ultimately had to be recognised.

“We always believed Scottish football deserved a quality fantasy football game and we delivered this.

“To everyone (including James Tavernier, Kevin van Veen and Regan Charles-Cook), thanks! Team FFS.”

The news was met with shock from around their online community, which also included social media discussion and podcasts previewing the points forecasts.

One said: “So devastated to hear this news. Had a ball playing the game this year.”

Another added: “End of an era! Always admired how quick the site would update after goals, assists and especially deadlines! All the best.”

A third joked: “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because you captained Kevin Van Veen.”

A fourth said: “The worst news to see in a long time. FFS provided great fun and banter amongst our followers and friends. I hope some resolution can be made. If not thank you for a great four years.”

The app included various leagues and communities tied to different teams or Scottish Football media.

Winner of the overall ‘Mega League’ was the cleverly named ‘Murder on Zidane’s Floor’ bossed by user @thestmirrenfix with 2669 points.

Within an hour of the shock decision fans were clamouring to save it.

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One replied: “Oh no!! Can a sponsor not be found to make it work for you guys?“

Another pleaded: “Petition to save FFS? Little gofundme if you let us know how much it needs to carry on.”

Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page