Rangers and Celtic will field B teams in the Lowland League next season after the fifth tier clubs voted to approve a one year pilot programme at their AGM last night.
Clubs had previously backed the plan in an indicative vote before formally giving it their approval last night, meaning the Gers and their Old Firm rivals will be able to field their best youngsters in competitive action.
Lowland League chairperson George Fraser confirmed the proposal didn’t get unanimous backing but did receive the simple majority needed to pass, saying: “The member clubs have voted in favour of this proposal that was put to them earlier this month.
“Whilst it wasn’t unanimous the majority of member clubs are in favour of it and ultimately the members made the decision, which is only right in a democracy.
“Our Board will now get to work on moving forward with plans to get the new season started on July 17.”
What next for the Old Firm Colts?
While the plan is currently only for the Colts to be in the Lowland League for a single season, Rangers and Celtic will no doubt be aiming to increase that.
Both sides will be hoping they can impress in the fifth tier and compete at the top end of the table and show they are capable of challenging.
Rangers losing Kevin Thomson to Kelty Hearts will be a blow for the Gers’ plans but getting the Old Firm’s youngsters playing competitive football will really help their development.
Both clubs have been pushing to be allowed to field a second-string in the league pyramid and, while the current proposal only lasts for a single season, both Rangers and Celtic will no doubt be pushing to extend that and give their players a chance to progress up the leagues.
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