Bungling SFA President Alan McRae has apologised to Dundee United following the Scottish Cup draw that descended into a farce.
United were first out of the hat and drawn at home to Celtic but moments later McRae brought the draw to a halt after noticing that Greenock Morton had escaped from their ball.
According to SFA rules the whole draw had to be re-staged with United sent to Ross County while Celtic were given a rare home tie when they were paired with Morton.
Perhaps reflecting the overall attitude of the SFA McRae felt that the financial aspect of being drawn at Ross County rather than hosting Celtic merited an apology.
Speaking to the Scottish Sun McRae, who took over as President from Campbell Ogilvie last summer, said: “I fully appreciate if Stephen was left angry. At first Dundee United are playing Celtic at home, then they’ve got Ross County in Dingwall.
“My reaction as a chairman — if I’d been looking at a visit from the champions, a full house, television coverage, gate receipts — would have been one of massive disappointment but the draw was flawed — there’s no way we could continue or leave the original draw as it was and resume with the other teams.
“It was embarrassing for all concerned and I can only apologise again to those affected including, of course, Stephen and Dundee United.
“Unfortunately, it has reflected badly on the SFA and Scottish football and that hurts, believe me.
“The staff who organise it are mortified. They do an excellent job and work hard to make sure everything about the competition goes smoothly.
“They are good, loyal people. But when you get something like this, well it deflates everyone.
“It turned into a shambles. It only took seconds for it to be stopped — but it felt like minutes, it was all very uncomfortable.
“I will fully understand if Stephen is upset and demands an explanation.
“Celtic at home would’ve brought in a lot of money for Dundee United so, yes, it will be a big disappointment they’re not now getting that tie.
“I have every sympathy for Stephen and his club over what’s happened. Of course I do but there was no alternative to declaring that the draw had to be made again.
“There will be a couple of clubs at least — or maybe only one — who will be upset but we will have an inquest.”
In a separate issue McRae has refused to disclose to Celtic shareholders why the SFA awarded Rangers (IL) a licence for European football in 2011 despite having a £6m tax demand overdue at the 30 June deadline to play in UEFA competitions.
