On Saturday November 12 , Celtic fans left their arena happy for more than just the result. The Scottish Premiership leaders won against Ross County 2:1 and spectators were able to enjoy a pre-match pint of beer. There was also a proposal to bring alcohol back to English football grounds.

The sale of alcohol in football arenas in Scotland has been banned for more than 40 years. This decision was influenced by riots during the 1980 Scottish Cup final. After more than four dry decades, Celtic FC announced that it had been granted a licence to sell beer for two-hour periods. Prior to Saturday's game, therefore, alcohol was available in the stand from 11am to 1pm before the match kicked off at 3pm. Fans visiting the West Stand at Celtic Park were able to enter through one of the gates and take advantage of the new opportunity, after which the ground was cleared. Spectators were then able to re-enter the stadium through the gates as usual from 1.30pm. 

© Scotdrone

There are less strict rules in England or Wales, where alcohol can be purchased at football venues. However, it is not permitted to consume alcoholic beverages during the match. The ban on consumption has been in place since 1985, when the English game was plagued by hooliganism, but its potential return was included as one of former sports minister Tracey Crouch's recommendations. 

The Member of Parliament believes that lifting the alcohol ban could help secure the financial future of clubs in the bottom regions of the tables. Opposing Crouch's views is the chief constable of Cheshire Police, according to whom giving fans an extra 90 minutes to drink alcohol would cause a lot of problems. 

The police chief said that putting such an idea into practice would be costly for clubs and would discourage many from attending matches. More police would then have to be on the premises and stadiums would be subject to damage done by fans under the influence. Beer cups flying between the rows would deter families with children.

© celticphotos