A spectre is haunting Scottish Football

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From the TSFM Manifesto 🙂

A spectre is haunting Scottish Football — the spectre of Sporting Integrity. All the powers of the old firms have entered into a holy alliance to exorcise this spectre: Billy and Dan, Blazer and Cassock, Record and Sun, Balance Sheet and P&L.
Where is the football fan in opposition to these that has not been decried as a “sporting integrity bampot” by his opponents in power?

Two things result from this fact:

I. Sporting Integrity is already widely acknowledged to be itself a power for good.

II. It is high time that Lovers of Sport should openly, in the face of the whole world, publish their views, their aims, and meet this nursery tale of the Spectre of Sporting Integrity with a manifesto of fair play.

To this end, Lovers of Sport of various partisanship have assembled on TSFM and sketched their manifesto, to be published on tsfm.scot.

Those who love sport though are challenged not just by the taunts of the monosyllabic automatons in the MSM, but by the owners of our football clubs who have displayed an almost total disregard to our wish to have a fair competition played out in the spirit of friendly rivalry. In fact the clubs, who speak those fine words, are not nearly as outraged as we are by the damage done to the integrity of the sport in the past few years .

In fact the term Sporting Integrity has become, since the latter stages of the Rangers era, a term of abuse; a mocking soubriquet attached to those who want sport to be just that – sport.

Sporting integrity now lives in the same media pigeon-hole as words like Islam, left-wing, militant, Muslim – and a host of others; words which are threats to the established order now set up as in-jokes, in order to reduce the effectiveness of the idea.

In fact, a new terminology has evolved in the reporting of football by both club officials and The Succulent Lamb Chapel alike;

“.. Sporting Integrity but …”.

For example

“We all want sporting integrity, but finance is more important”

Says who exactly?

Stated in such a matter of fact way that the obvious question is headed off at the pass, it is sometimes difficult to re-frame the discussion – perhaps because crayon is so hard to erase?

This is the backdrop to The Scottish Football Monitor and the world in which we live. Often the levels of scrutiny employed by our contributors are far in excess of any scrutiny employed by the MSM. Indeed our ideas and theories are regularly plagiarised by those very same lazy journalists who lurk here, and cherry-pick material to suit their own agendas; regularly claiming exclusives for stories that TSFM and RTC before us had placed in the public domain weeks earlier.

This was going to lead into a discourse about the love of money versus the love of sport – of how the sacred cows of acquisitiveness, gate- retention and turnstile spinning is far more important to the heads of our football clubs (the Billys, Dans and Blazers of the intro) than maintaining the traditions of our sport.

However events of Friday 14th November have given me cause to leave that for another day. The biggest squirrel of all in this sorry saga has always been the sleight of hand employed instil a siege mentality in the Rangers fans. The press have time and again assisted people (with no love of football in general or Rangers in particular) to enrich themselves – legally or otherwise – and feed on the loyalty of Rangers fans.

A matter for Rangers fans may also be the identity of some of those who had their trust, but who also assisted the Whytes and Greens by their public statements of support.

Our contention has been that rules have been bent twisted or broken to accommodate those people, the real enemies of the Rangers fans – and fans everywhere.

Through our collective research and group-analysis of events, we have also wondered out loud about the legality of many aspects of the operating style of some of the main players in the affair. That suspicion has been shared most notably by Mark Daly and Alex Thompson, but crucially now appears to be shared by Law Enforcement.

I confess I am fed up with the self-styled “bampot” epithet. For the avoidance of doubt, the “bampots” in this affair are those who have greater resources than us, and access to the truth, but who have lacked either the will or the courage or the imagination to follow it through.

We are anything but bampots. Rather, we have demonstrated that the wisdom of the crowd is more effective by far than any remnants of wisdom in the press.

I have no doubt that the police investigation into this matter is proceeding in spite of great opposition in the MSM and the Scottish Football Authorities – all of whom conspired to expose Rangers to the custodianship of those for whom football is a foreign language.

I have no doubt that the constant exposition of wrong-doing on this blog, in particular the questions we have constantly raised, and anomalies we have pointed out, has assisted and enabled the law enforcement agencies in this process.

If we are to be consistent in this, our enabling of the authorities, we MUST show restraint at all times as this process is followed through. People who are charged with a crime deserve to be given a fair trial in the absence of rumour or innuendo. We must also, if we are to continue as the spectre which haunts the avaricious – and the real bampots – be seen to be better than they, and give them no cause to accuse us of irresponsibility.

This affair has now evolved way beyond one club gaining unfair advantage over others. For all the understandable Schadenfreude of many among us, the real enemy is not Rangers, it is about those who enabled and continue to enable the farce at Ibrox.

This is now about systematic cheating at the heart of the Scottish game (in the name of cash and in spite of lip service to sporting integrity), and how the greed of a bunch of ethically challenged officials allowed another group of ethically challenged businessmen free rein to enrich themselves at the expense of the fans.

Whether laws were broken or not, the players at Rangers have come and gone and are variables, but the malignant constant at the SFA and SPFL are still there. Last night, even after the news that four men had been arrested in connection with the takeover at Ibrox in 2011, they were gathered together at Celtic Park with their Irish counterparts, tucking into succulent lamb (perhaps) and fine wines, doing some back slapping, making jokes about the vulgarities of their fans, bragging about the ST money they have banked.

The revolution won’t be over until they are gone, and if they remain, it is Scottish Football that will be over.

 

 

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About Trisidium

Trisidium is a Dunblane businessman with a keen interest in Scottish Football. He is a Celtic fan, although the demands of modern-day parenting have seen him less at games and more as a taxi service for his kids.

4,164 thoughts on “A spectre is haunting Scottish Football”


  1. If FFP really meant anything in Scottish football then a going concern warning would mean an immediate transfer ban.

    The Rangers are dysfunctional in all respects and given that the SFA believe that Rangers survival = Scottish football survival , it may mean that another license is granted for an under-21 outfit playing out of Hampden.
    With Ashley appearing non-committal , it is only King who will only come into play at the next liquidation….. starting to feel more like Hampden and back to Div 4


  2. thirdmanrunning says:
    November 28, 2014 at 12:39 pm

    There have been suggestions made elsewhere that some of the Onerous Contracts also include bonus payments TO suppliers in the event of promotion to the Premiership.

    If this is the case, would they not have to be shown as Contingent Liabilities in the Accounts?

    It’s a nice scenario though, promotion – rather than securing additional income – putting yet another hole in th life raft.
    ================================================
    tmr, a Contingent Liability is typically a one-off event, like upcoming litigation which may result in the company having to make a material payout/settlement.

    As far I can guess, wrt the ‘onerous contracts’, they seem to be related to ‘normal’ operational activities.

    So apparently, with promotion will come higher/additional operating costs, [and presumably higher revenues.] The suspected ‘onerous contracts’ higher costs should be reflected in the accounts produced post-promotion to the SPL.


  3. valentinesclown says:

    November 28, 2014 at 9:29 am

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    SKY news “Craig Whyte appearing in court today with regards to takeover of Rangers, which led to administration and then it’s subsequent liquidation”
    Easy as that, simple small truthful statement which seems to be outside our smsm remit. Shame on them
    *****************************************

    We should now see this reported ad nauseum in the coming weeks & months.

    Regan & Doncaster thought the old club / new club argument was simply an issue for the fans. I bet they think differently now.
    Armageddon is looming , but not in a way they could have ever imagined.


  4. EKBhoy says:
    November 28, 2014 at 1:22 pm

    The most interesting comment that Mr Lawwell made at the Celtic AGM, was that “A FORM, (my emphasis), of FFP would be implemented in Scottish Football”. I have yet to see any analysis from any quarter of what this deviant form of FFP would look like, nor what impact, if any, it would have on the current Scottish Football model.

    I am, therefore, deeply sceptical that we shall see any meaningful steps towards the implementation of FFP, though, I earnestly hope to be proved wrong.

    The analysis of the accounts, puts the media to shame as usual :mrgreen:


  5. Finloch, they never had “Glasgow” in their name so they can’t reclaim it as you put it. I don’t see any barrier in a new clUb being called Glasgow Rangers FC.


  6. bobferris says:
    November 28, 2014 at 1:51 pm

    The Mighty Glasgow Rangers, surely? :mrgreen:


  7. mcfc says:
    November 28, 2014 at 11:35 am
    ================================

    Right now in this total farce the SFA and SPFL appear to resemble Lloyd and Harry, the two main characters from Dumb and Dumber. It doesn’t matter which one is which.


  8. bobferris says:
    November 28, 2014 at 1:51 pm

    Finloch, they never had “Glasgow” in their name so they can’t reclaim it as you put it. I don’t see any barrier in a new clUb being called Glasgow Rangers FC.
    ========================================================

    There was of course Glasgow Rangers FC Ltd which was incorporated – interestingly enough – on 13 June 2012 and went into voluntary liquidation on 14 June 2013. I see the registered office was Blue Square House, 272 Bath Street, Glasgow, and note a virtual office company operates from that address for those who need to hire a Glasgow address.

    Then there is: Glasgow Rangers Football Club Ltd which was incorporated on 25 October 2011 and although dormant is still registered at its HIGH WYCOMBE address.

    The company’s nature of business is given as: 93110 – Operation of sports facilities.

    Seems to be a popular name – might be worth looking at the directors and paperwork.


  9. Is Craigie making a personal appearance at the Big Hoose today, complete with fawning fans and palm leaves, before he makes his way to the Sheriff Court?
    Or do the wheels of justice just turn exceedingly slowly?


  10. Eco, that would be a Mr Gerard Moran. The name strikes a chord but not sure why. Is this ground that has been covered before??

    Edit to add: there’s been that many names, some of whom have made but a fleeting appearance!


  11. causaludendi says:
    November 28, 2014 at 2:54 pm

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    Eco, that would be a Mr Gerard Moran. The name strikes a chord but not sure why. Is this ground that has been covered before??
    —————————————————–
    I personally don’t recall it being discussed previously but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t. Perhaps someone with any info might be able to fill in the blanks.


  15. Steviebc,

    My money would be on one person failing the ‘desirable test’ to put in funds so the other person failing the desirable test doesn’t have to, to keep the show on the road so undesirable #3 (the one with the big hands) can continue to live the life he’d always wished for. But at least when they run out of money a third time they’ll have a director of football to, em, direct.


  16. scapaflow says:
    November 28, 2014 at 1:40 pm
    9 0 Rate This

    EKBhoy says:
    November 28, 2014 at 1:22 pm

    The most interesting comment that Mr Lawwell made at the Celtic AGM, was that “A FORM, (my emphasis), of FFP would be implemented in Scottish Football”. I have yet to see any analysis from any quarter of what this deviant form of FFP would look like, nor what impact, if any, it would have on the current Scottish Football model.

    I am, therefore, deeply sceptical that we shall see any meaningful steps towards the implementation of FFP, though, I earnestly hope to be proved wrong.

    The analysis of the accounts, puts the media to shame as usual :mrgreen:
    ———
    My understanding is that full FFP would be introduced in a phased manner after clubs sorted themselves out , as it would be chaos introducing this with the vast majority of the club’s up to their necks in debt.

    One club , as usual , is demanding special treatment as ususal.

    This is under the control of the SPFL not the SFA.

    The recent Livingston case indicates that there are some measures in place in respect of payment of taxes, however to save Rangers from themselves ( i.e. idiot supremacist fan culture , being driven on by commercial media interests) , there really needs to be an agreed set of financial ratios and punishments which are clear cut.

    I believe the League of Ireland operates on quarterly financial disclosure , however such is the toxic / poisonous culture at Ibrox , the current bunch of muppets would simply ignore any rules , and the rest of the clubs are expected to either shut up and count the few extra crumbs from Rangers being involved in the top league or in Celtics case to protect their employees and fans from physical harm.

    Still, King will not buy out the aforementioned muppets , Ashley sitting on his hands , the “club” however will not countenance a reduced playing squad as they could simply not face multiple doings on the field of play ….. ,meanwhile the SFA just sort of sit there doing jack all, a simple statement along the lines of
    ” The SFA note the financial position noted in the Rangers accounts and are deeply concerned with the management of the clubs finances over the last 2 years. Consequently, we have served notice on Rangers that the following directors have been charged with bringing the game into disrepute and not acting for the benefit of their own club and their commitments to the wider football community.

    A simple charge of asking how deep their noses where in the trough in respect of bonuses and salaries versus the looses racked up during their tenure , is all that is really needed.

    Such a review may be needed after court proceedings have concluded but every single one of these chancers should be drummed out of Scottish football , attendance at any ground , ever would result in a massive fine , I would start with SDM (Craigy has already been dealt with) and work my way through the lot of them.


  17. StevieBC says:

    November 28, 2014 at 3:12 pm

    “RANGERS are reportedly sizing up Mark Wotte for a director of football position at Ibrox…”

    http://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/latest/rangers-eye-shock-move-for-mark-wotte-1-3618709
    =============================
    Don’t know if already mentioned – but this MUST be a huge squirrel, shirley ?! 😯

    =================================================
    NO, this is a huge squirrel:
    http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xZyvwmsGv8I/Us-QGJE52sI/AAAAAAAABPo/u0u-tsxB-aQ/s1600/Giant-Squirrel.gif


  18. BigGav says:

    November 28, 2014 at 11:45 am
    davythelotion says:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:53 am

    I can’t see any indication of how much the latest 10 redundancies cost, the payments made to Imran or the severance payments to Wallace & Nash.
    ——

    Note 7 (Directors’ emoluments), following mention of severance payments to Mather and Stockbridge during the year, states “Since the year end a further severance payment has been made to Graham Wallace of £100,000″.

    Note 32 (Post balance sheet events) mentions the Ahmed settlement, saying “this is an adjusting post-balance sheet event and the settlement value has been included in these financial statements”. Anyone know what this actually means?
    //////////////////////////////////////////////
    BigGav
    I’m not sure if your query was answered earlier, so sorry if I’m duplicating a previous post.
    An adjusting event is one that changes the figures within the accounting period covered by the report.
    A non-adjusting event is one that is merely noted in post-balance sheet events for information purpose, but does not change the figures.
    The Ahmed claim was already in place during the accounting period, although the outcome was not known until after the year-end.
    As the outcome is a cost to the company, that cost is recognised in the earlier period, even though the payment did not occur until later.
    There will be a debit (expense) entry in the profit and loss account, and the balance sheet will have a credit (liability) entry somewhere in current liabilities. I haven’t had time to check the accounts in detail, but it may be identifiable in the notes showing the detailed breakdown.


  20. RIFC PLC balance sheet

    Tangible fixed assets 47,134K (note 10)
    Intangible assets 17,797K (note 11)

    Non-current liabilities
    Deferred tax 6,685K (note 20)

    These entries need to be regarded with a fair degree of scepticism when considering the balance sheet.

    The deferred tax liability arises on the dubious revaluation that took place in 2012-13 and was recognised in the profit and loss account in the 2013 accounts. The rest of the revaluation is shown in equity (see also note 26). We went down the route of overvaluation of assets with RFC(IL) and stripping out those items back then showed the true state of the company.

    Is a loss-making brand actually worth anything?

    If revenue generating assets produce insufficient revenue to prevent a loss year on year, what are those assets actually worth in that market?


  21. STV report that Whyte faced a 45 minute private hearing, named a judicial examination, at which he was questioned by lawyers for the Crown and was given the chance “to set out his stall” prior to a formal trial.
    I assume therefore that none of these proceedings can be made public at the present time.


  22. So will we have Sir David Murray – knighted for services to business – claim in court that he was ‘duped’ by the obvious chancer Craigie ?

    …well obvious to the average Internet Bampot that is… 🙄

    Maybe the best we can hope for is humiliation in court for the elusive Minty?


  24. James Cook ‏@BBCJamesCook 5m5 minutes ago

    Former Rangers owner Craig Whyte has left Glasgow Sheriff Court amid chaotic scenes.


  25. http://www.investegate.co.uk/daniel-stewart-secs–dan-/rns/nominated-adviser-licence/201411281600383707Y/

    Daniel Stewart Secs
    Nominated Adviser licence
    RNS Number : 3707Y
    Daniel Stewart Securities PLC
    28 November 2014

    Daniel Stewart Securities plc (“Daniel Stewart” or “the Company”)

    28 November 2014

    Nominated Adviser (“Nomad”) licence

    Daniel Stewart announces it has today notified the London Stock Exchange that Daniel Stewart & Co PLC (“DS&C”), the Company’s regulated operating subsidiary, will relinquish its Nomad licence with effect from the close of business on 12 December 2014.

    DS&C is currently making arrangements for the transfer of its AIM Nomad clients to alternative nominated advisers.

    DS&C will continue to offer its corporate clients both broking and corporate finance services. The Group’s private client business remains unaffected.

    The Board believes that cost savings associated with termination of the Nomad licence will offset the resultant reduction in revenue to this business segment.


  26. Anyone else feel like the entire saga is some gloriously overblown real life Final Destination scenario – 😀 Or is it just me!


  27. Sorry Ekbhoy, but this “or in Celtics case to protect their employees and fans from physical harm.” is risible.

    Celtic were Rangers MkII’s best pals. It is abundantly clear that Messers Riley & Lawwell in partnership with the rest of the SFA, SPL & SFL boards did everything they could to facilitate Rangers MkII’s entry into the league at the highest level they could get away with.

    I have no doubt, that Messers Riley & Lawwell would argue that their actions were always in what they saw/see as the best financial interests of Scottish Football & Celtic Football Club PLC, so let’s not kid ourselves.

    Mr Lawwell’s comments around sporting integrity, give me some hope for the future, but , like an awful lot of people, I need to see that hope being transformed into actual positive change soon.


  28. Phil’s latest paints a sorry picture

    http://www.philmacgiollabhain.ie/the-devil-is-in-the-retail/

    But with the AGM announced, the question of dis-application of pre-emption rights is on the table again. That is, being able to sell new (diluting) shares to anyone, not just being able to offer them to existing shareholders, initiallty in proportion to their current holding.

    Assuming the 75% vote is acheived to allow this, who in their right mind would buy such shares at anywhere near market price, given the lack of enthusiasm from the current shareholders.

    Fans – sometime after Christmas, will they dig deep to add to the minus 66% return they have on their current shares? Would they shell out twice as much this time to hit ÂŁ8mil

    Rangers Men – Not on previous evidence, they prefer to have something tangible to secure their “gambles” – shareholders are at the back of the queue in administration and stand to lose 100%

    City Types – are there enough “Tim, Nice but Dim” chaps left to over-subscribe or underwrite the issue – Graham Wallace’s charm offensive suggests not.

    Foreign Gentlemen – Did the Malaysian posse leave stoked with ambition to get involved in this great opportunity?

    Technical Traders – after analysing the fundamentals they can see that the market capitalization of the company is significantly below the tangible asset value (break-up value). Sorry, I’ll read that again . . . market capitalization ÂŁ19.55mil, asset value: unknown – see contingent liabilities, and going concern caveats.

    So who does that leave – the Tooth Fairy, Jack of beanstalk fame, a “mugs list” from some get rich quick internet site, Charles Green, Dave King, Mike Ashley. Which is most unlikely ?

    This really could end soon without some startling development – either way the entertainment continues.


  30. Martin says:
    November 28, 2014 at 4:46 pm
    2 0 Rate This

    James Cook ‏@BBCJamesCook 5m5 minutes ago

    Former Rangers owner Craig Whyte has left Glasgow Sheriff Court amid chaotic scenes.
    ——————————————–

    Whatever has been said about Whyte previously, he is as entitled to justice and a fair trial as much as the rest of us are. The authorities, in my humble opinion, need to get their act together quickly.


  31. Martin says:
    November 28, 2014 at 4:19 pm

    Former Rangers owner Craig Whyte released on bail

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-30242028
    ================================================================
    I don’t think I have ever seen such detailed information wrt alleged charges following a private hearing at a first appearnce under Solemn Procedure ever being published before.

    It simply amazes me. However this case is ‘live’ and cannot be discussed and I would also caution posters against making the assumption that the same charges apply to other accused who have appeared in court at an earlier date.


  32. upthehoops says:
    November 28, 2014 at 5:03 pm

    Agreed, Police Scotland have handled all the court appearances very badly thus far


  33. Agree posters should say nothing about this. The blog can’t be put at risk. Loads I would personally like to say and ask as a layman re the legal world from what I’ve already observed, but hey-ho!


  34. Iscapaflow says:
    November 28, 2014 at 4:52 pm
    4 2 Rate This

    Sorry Ekbhoy, but this “or in Celtics case to protect their employees and fans from physical harm.” is risible.

    Celtic were Rangers MkII’s best pals. It is abundantly clear that Messers Riley & Lawwell in partnership with the rest of the SFA, SPL & SFL boards did everything they could to facilitate Rangers MkII’s entry into the league at the highest level they could get away with.

    I have no doubt, that Messers Riley & Lawwell would argue that their actions were always in what they saw/see as the best financial interests of Scottish Football & Celtic Football Club PLC, so let’s not kid ourselves.

    Mr Lawwell’s comments around sporting integrity, give me some hope for the future, but , like an awful lot of people, I need to see that hope being transformed into actual positive change soon.
    ———
    There is absolutely no prove to your statements re MrLawell and his colleagues desire to do Rangers a favour. Indeed, I have noted before on here that the Celtic Board would have been quaffing champagne (in private) at the demise of Rangers and the free run at the CL …… Only my take on things , not a proven fact …..
    I would have thought it is obvious that the Celtic board keep quiet on all thing Rangers to ensure the safety of their employees and fans , you can’t think that’s risible if you like , but that rule has been in operation for a very long time and predates Rangers self combustion.


  35. scapaflow says:
    November 28, 2014 at 5:07 pm
    0 0 Rate This

    Agreed, Police Scotland have handled all the court appearances very badly thus far
    ——————————————–

    The flaming torches and pitchforks brigade need to be addressed ASAP. This case has not even started in earnest. I think I’m allowed to point out UK history contains admitted miscarriages of justice in cases where there was a huge wave of public revulsion at the time.


  36. The BBC reporting seems to spend a lot of time mentioning ‘accusations’ rather than specific charges. Would I be right in thinking that this is mostly tittle-tattle, rather than actual criminal evidence related to the trial?

    BTW Happy Day! Bazza actually mentioned Clyde in his Record Column – Hurray! Er…. except it was only a brief mention in the context that he knows what Ally goes through, because he sits in a darkened room going through things in his mind when we lose, and then we were swiftly forgotten again.

    I can only assume from the way we’re going this season that he spends half his time in darkened rooms, and the rest ‘writing’ his Rangers-centric pieces for the DR.


  37. The Celtic board have the same sense that the club was cheated by Murray as the fans have.

    The board were privately outraged by the outcome of the LNS decision.

    The board have no desire to do any favours for Rangers. None

    On Whyte, and based solely on the BBC report of the charges. My reading is that Whyte will have to prove that claims that David Murray did not know of his intention to use Ticktus funds to settle the Lloyds debt are false.

    If Whyte can prove that, then logically you would expect that this would bring charges on others.


  38. upthehoops says:
    November 28, 2014 at 5:20 pm
    scapaflow says:
    November 28, 2014 at 5:07 pm

    Agreed, Police Scotland have handled all the court appearances very badly thus far
    ——————————————–
    The flaming torches and pitchforks brigade need to be addressed ASAP. This case has not even started in earnest. I think I’m allowed to point out UK history contains admitted miscarriages of justice in cases where there was a huge wave of public revulsion at the time.
    ===============================================================
    I noted before the first court appearances took place that there could be a problem with venue simply because if these matters go to court they could be heard before a jury.

    I think that could cause a problem for reasons wrt jury selection I doubt it’s necessary to rehearse. And tbh given the scenes following the separate recent court appearances it might be sensible to pick a court location for any propsed trial which reduces the size of the travelling support.

    I again caution those who might report on a possible future trial wrt personal safety. It’s impossible to take notes without it being obvious to those sitting around you and some of them might well be on the look-out for bloggers.

    At some stage our politicians – of all parties – really have got to find the courage to cleanse Scotland of this sectarian hatred that stalks our country to our eternal shame unless it is eradicated.


  39. As I think we expected, all the media coverage of CW’s extradition and court appearance is worded so as to set him up as the bad guy who fraudulently bought RFC* when he had no money, with the intention of then keeping all the unpaid taxes for himself and allowing the club/company/thingy to be liquidated (er, sorry – to enter administration before being rescued!!!!!). Certainly, any RFC* fan sites I’ve seen are buying into all that again, though other than hoping he serves jail time (or dies!!) they don’t seem to know what they hope comes out of any trial. If this is sub judice, mods please delete, but is there hope that he has evidence, useable in court, that DM wasn’t duped?

    Edit to note that Barca’s post above also promotes the same solution for CW.


  40. Barca, your view & my view are not mutually exclusive. I am happy to accept they were outraged by the LNS decision, that does not mean I’m incorrect with reference to the actions of the SFA, SPL & SFL boards.

    Whatever else may arise from the various court proceedings, I’m quite sure that a number of shibboleths, and personal reputations, will take a severe battering.


  41. Barcabhoy says:
    November 28, 2014 at 5:33 pm

    On Whyte, and based solely on the BBC report of the charges. My reading is that Whyte will have to prove that claims that David Murray did not know of his intention to use Ticktus funds to settle the Lloyds debt are false.
    ======================================================================
    Obviously the way in which any accused’s defence is conducted is between them and their legal team and will usually be determined by the evidence available from prosecution and defence witnesses through precognition.

    In some serious cases it’s not unkown for the defence to request the precognition under oath of pivotal witnesses as opposed to a simple precognition statement.

    The latter cannot be introduced as evidence in itself in a subsequent trial but a precognition under oath can be.


  43. bobferris says:
    November 28, 2014 at 1:51 pm

    The Mighty Glasgow Rangers, surely? :mrgreen:

    Mighty Morphin’ Glasgow Rangers?


  44. I agree with Essex. It is shocking that there had to be a S.506 to omit the name of the auditor. This does not happen very often and may be in the case of animal rights protestors etc. In the Tesco fiasco the broadsheets were not adverse to disclosing the name of the pwc auditor who signed the accounts who, as yet, has not been found to have done anything wrong. Says a lot. I doubt there is another set of accounts of a club in Scotland, England, Ireland or Wales who has the name of the auditor omitted.


  45. So I suppose sneaking him out of the back door so that the BBC couldn’t put two pictures side by side that shout out “this is how he looks now” was out of the question? Strange this justice stuff.


  46. From the small video of Craig Whyte on STV i seen, he has aged in 3 years in the way Presidents and Prime Ministers do from the pressure of what life brings them.


  47. Just a passing thought spurred by comments a couple of days ago about the League Cup Semis.

    If Version 2 go bust sometime in January and a fire sale of “assets” follows, what effect does this have on the fairness of the Semis? Celtic then have a walkover game against a team of teenagers and elderly Tier 4 Pros, whatever can be scraped together by whoever is caretaker – in effect a bye into the final, while Aberdeen and Dundee United have to fight it out regardless.

    If I were the owner of either club, I’d be asking for absolute cast iron assurances from the SPFL administration that they have done everything in their power to ascertain that Wee Pretendy Rangers have the financial wherewithal to survive at least that long and put a reasonably competitive team on the pitch. If not then I’d want to see the beaten quarter-finalists take their place.


  48. Will make no comment how any forthcoming trial, if any, will progress, but the pictures shown on both STV and BBC Scotland news on Mr Whyte arriving and leaving court were more than a little unsavoury.
    What could Police Scotland haven’t been thinking about making Whyte as visible as he seemed tonight?
    The Bears also gave us yet another example of why no one loves them but they don’t carre.
    Would hate to be a juror in this one; I would be worried for my future wellbeing.


  49. Chappie from SoS seemed audible on the posted video clips. Not doing his cause any credit. Some of the stuff on their Facebook timeline is criminal. Dearie, dearie me.

    What is the point of the media circus and ‘running the gauntlet?’ This could end very badly.

    Craig cutting quite a sharp profile with his new style. Will he star as himself in the movie? Interesting choice of lawyer, too.

    After reading Phil’s latest it is looking as though Flescher’s Haugh Rangers might actually have a future — Sevco looking holed below the waterline.

    Still DJ is the eternal optimist on SSB: Mike, warchests, Ally will come good, it’s all the players’ fault. When it comes to pundits, you get what you pay for.


  50. Do we know for certain that the trial we are discussing will be a trial by jury? I’d have though that, with the incredibly high media attention, potential for jury intimidation etc, not to mention the high level of technical references that are bound to be made, that it would be in the interest of all concerned for the verdict to be decided by judges alone, if that is, indeed, possible for this type of case.


  51. Would like to hear the opinion of those in the know RE: Fraud trials and juries.

    There have been mutterings in the past (not here) about complex fraud trials collapsing because the evidence is just too technical and complicated for the common man to understand. Trials before judges only was mentioned. Or a jury comprised solely of CAs

    This, of course, flies in the face of the maxim “tried before your peers).

    I think that any ordinary punter on a jury, if they were completely foxed by proceedings and the evidence, would be apprehensive about convicting anyone. I know I would.

    Crawford


  52. Danish Pastry says:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:07 pm

    Craig cutting quite a sharp profile with his new style. Will he star as himself in the movie?
    ———————————
    DP, was thinking the same, just lurvv the new look!!

    Touch of Jamie Dornan, hint of Jonny Depp, wee bit of the piratical Branson, that 1000 yard stare!! Just a bit of worry over the homage to Assange in the hair…!!

    Does he have an agent? Have I got a mancrush??


  53. Apologies, I composed my post before Allyjambo posted and didnt see it


  54. Extraordinary scenes and subliminal DR by line headlines today IMO reprehensible
    Anyone believing one individual was responsible for everything is misguided IMO
    Frayed nerves after a 3 year nightmare is human and understandable
    But consider
    The Law will take its time
    It has to, it simply just has to, get to the bottom of this scandal (s!)

    Anything else will leave long term scars

    I believe the Law will sort this out properly in time as nothing else will suffice

    If all Bears (+ Bearettes!! 😉 – Blimey) can keep the heid in the face of SMSM PR drivel
    This could work long term in Bears favour
    Needs a bit of patience and forbearance after last 3 years & I`ll admit this a big ask of anyone
    It has to be done tho
    It`ll work as patience rewarded
    tp


  56. Danish Pastry – it does indeed sound like Craig Houston’s voice shouting “fuckin scumbag” and issuing a death threat. Always thought he sounded like a decent guy in his tv interviews, maybe the emotion of the occasion got the better of him, I’m not one to judge others but he certainly hasn’t helped his cause.


  57. crawford says:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:23 pm

    So good they said it twice 🙄

    But just where, in Scotland, could you find a jury guaranteed to have no Rangers (or TRFC) supporters in it? It would almost be like having members of a victims family on the jury of a murder trial!


  58. bobferris says:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:34 pm
    1 0 Rate This

    Danish Pastry – it does indeed sound like Craig Houston’s voice shouting “fuckin scumbag” and issuing a death threat. Always thought he sounded like a decent guy in his tv interviews, maybe the emotion of the occasion got the better of him, I’m not one to judge others but he certainly hasn’t helped his cause.
    ———

    Yes, the ‘Your day will come’ thing was maybe open to interpretation, but poor show. I had a tiny bit of belief that that he’d help start a proper team with proper supporters., too.

    PS SouthernExile Brilliant. I thought there was a bit of Ewan McGregor’s Long Way Round biker chum Charley Boorman, or an actor I can’t quite put my finger on … something with fencing and big shirts … Oops, did I say fencing? Duelling, obviously.


  59. Is it possible the forthcoming trial re alleged mis deeds at the big Hoose will provide further evidence to assist those trying to push “resolution 12”?


  60. neebs67 says:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:47 pm
    1 0 Rate This

    Is it possible the forthcoming trial re alleged mis deeds at the big Hoose will provide further evidence to assist those trying to push “resolution 12″?
    ———

    That’s the ÂŁ95,000 question … er … $64,000 question.


  61. I’ve just watched Craig Whyte leaving court today.

    It was interesting to see that he needed an entirely different escort than was required the day he entered Ibrox.

    It was also interesting to see that he received a better escort than his co-defendants received when they left twelve days ago.

    The big question now is how much did Craig Whyte tape during the build up to his takeover and the subsequent collapse of the club?

    If he has will it incriminate others?

    The financial results are now being poured over by better people than me but, despite loses being reduced, they are still too large for anyone but Mike Ashley.

    These loses would devour Dave King’s cash injection.

    The main problem, as has been identified here long ago, there is no sustainability. The new club has always been two levels behind what their cash burn could sustain.
    All through the nineties the rest of Scottish football was told to watch RFC go to the ‘next level’ like some bizarre game of super Mario as money, that wasn’t really theirs, was recklessly spent. ‘The Rangers’ have done exactly the same. Instead of cutting their cloth to get by and be promoted on reasonable terms they went on an orgy of excess. Overnight stays in top hotels to prepare for away games that they could reach in a couple of hours by bus. Overpaid aging players who will all be out of contract by the time they reach the promise land of the Premiership. While that will reduce costs it means that either new players will have to be bought, forcing up costs again, or inexperienced youngsters will have to be thrown into the bears den (no pun intended).

    Mike Ashley is being asked to fund this shortfall. At best he will probably make ÂŁ4M a year from merchandising but to get this he has to lose ÂŁ8M.


  62. Southern exile. Nope, me too. Scary!

    Any how’s, if you want to wind up a bear tonight (more) point out that had pierce brosnan’s doppelgänger borrowed 18m legitimately, then used it to buy the club who used it repay the bank with craigy then taking the now legit ticketus loan out of the club to repay his original debt then the end result would have been exactly the same! In fact I’m surprised Charlie didn’t think of it first. Maybe he did!


  63. I have just watched the BBC footage of Craig Whyte being led through a crowd after his hearing today.

    I cannot think of a better way of ensuring that Mr Whyte was intimidated and questions must be asked as to why he was put at such risk.

    Comparisons to a Jack Ruby event may seem far fetched but I for one do not think we want a rerun of such scenes in future.

    Scottish Football needs a strong Police Scotland.


  64. Danish Pastry says:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:46 pm
    2 0 Rate This

    bobferris says:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:34 pm
    1 0 Rate This

    Danish Pastry – it does indeed sound like Craig Houston’s voice shouting “fuckin scumbag” and issuing a death threat. Always thought he sounded like a decent guy in his tv interviews, maybe the emotion of the occasion got the better of him, I’m not one to judge others but he certainly hasn’t helped his cause.
    ———

    Yes, the ‘Your day will come’ thing was maybe open to interpretation, but poor show. I had a tiny bit of belief that that he’d help start a proper team with proper supporters., too.
    ____________
    the same person shouting effin scumbag also shouted your dead
    the video is on the SOS facebook page

    not very clever


  65. As I did say yesterday getting out of hand already. If the establishment needs to prosecute a patsy, it should ensure at least its target arrives in the dock intact. A number of press tonight could have reasonably been done for obstruction and have the folk who caused criminal damage to the car been charged?
    If not I’m sure defence are adding these failures up to be offered up at a later date.


  66. Yep, it’s the “you’re dead” bit I was referring to earlier DP.


  67. Jane Lewis ‏@BBCJaneLewis

    Both League Cup semi-finals will be played at Hampden. Dundee United v Aberdeen Sat 31st Jan KO 3pm. Celtic v Rangers Sun 1st Feb KO 1.30pm.


  68. redlichtie says:

    November 28, 2014 at 8:14 pm

    Yes, my initial thoughts on seeing the BBC clip was that he shouldn’t be taking any shortcuts through police basements escorted by Texas Rangers.


  69. My aunt in Mt Florida’s just booked a house swap to Freetown.


  70. Just a thought.

    With Daniel Stewart calling it a day as far as operating as NOMADs, I wonder how easy it will be for RIFC plc to acquire a new (4th) one! I wonder, too, how successful any share issue might be without one – ie is it possible? I would imagine not!

    If they do manage to secure a new NOMAD, I’d expect the fees to be rather onerous, and probably paid in advance!


  71. So is this the first known case of hari kari in a nomad? The samurai wouldn’t surrender either right enough!


  72. I hope Craig Whyte is safe and continues to be safe.


  73. stan free says:
    November 28, 2014 at 8:53 pm
    1 0 Rate This

    redlichtie says:

    November 28, 2014 at 8:14 pm

    Yes, my initial thoughts on seeing the BBC clip was that he shouldn’t be taking any shortcuts through police basements escorted by Texas Rangers.
    ——–

    Going a little OT the Ruby basement thing was a whole area of study for the HSCA in the 1970s — the second official investigation into the JFK assassination. He appeared to have been given access to the secure area from an inside contact.

    I had the opportunity to research a lot of that period in the early 1990s for some things I was writing at the time and one of the major lessons that came out of it, for me at least, was that no matter how overwhelming the evidence, if the media is manipulated in a way to significantly affect public opinion by the powers that be, there’s little chance of the true facts being made widely known.

    Oliver Stone related a startling event while making JFK. An early version of the screenplay was stolen and the film panned by critics even before it was released! Media bias or media control?

    Anyway, top marks to JS again tonight on Sportsound for mentioning facts in a diplomatic, though convincing manner. He will not accept the media myth and well done to him for that. There comes a point where the denial of truth and cover-up of facts becomes as egregious as the crime itself. The ongoing media spin is a case in its own right.


  74. Celtic v The Rangers Sun 1st Feb
    the day after the transfer window is closed,
    Who could be left from the ibrox squad to face celtic?


  75. jean7brodie says:
    I hope Craig Whyte is safe and continues to be safe.
    —
    Hear, hear!

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