Aberdeen lose 500 Rangers semi-final tickets after pitch invasion

Aberdeen have lost 500 tickets from their allocation for the Premier Sports Cup semi-final against Rangers after supporter misconduct in the previous round, BBC Sport reported on Friday. The SPFL sanction follows a pitch invasion and the use of pyrotechnics at Kilmarnock, and the club must cover the cost of the withdrawn seats.

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The incidents occurred during Aberdeen's quarter-final visit to Rugby Park, where the Dons progressed through a penalty shoot-out. Some supporters entered the playing area after that victory. The punishment now affects access to the next round, with fewer Aberdeen supporters able to attend the Hampden tie.

Responding to the decision, recently appointed chief executive Adrian Bevington praised the supporters' passion and stressed that most behave well. In comments carried by BBC Sport, he also warned that the club must avoid situations that could leave it exposed to further punishment. His response combined support for the wider fanbase with a call to prevent a repeat.

Aberdeen's own ticket announcement, published on September 16, had confirmed an allocation of up to 17,000 for the October 31 match at Hampden Park in Glasgow. The club said it had sought an equal split but that the SPFL rejected that request. Kick-off was set for 5.30pm, with Aberdeen fans assigned to the East and South stands.

The published sales timetable began with supporters holding at least 200 priority points on September 23, followed by those with at least 50 points the next day. A third phase, for accounts with a previous purchase history, was scheduled for 5pm on September 25. That phase allows up to two tickets per qualifying account, compared with four in the first two phases.

The club's arrangements also specify digital tickets through the Hampden Park App. Tickets are due to appear seven days before the game, with QR codes becoming active on matchday. The lead purchaser can forward tickets to other members of a group, while supporters travelling together can also keep multiple tickets on one account if needed.