RANGERS were last night on a collision course with the SPFL after the league told the Ibrox club to abide by their rules and charge their supporters extra for play-off matches.
A public statement from Rangers that they would reward their most loyal fans with free admittance to their home play-off matches has sparked a fresh SPFL stand-off, as it would drastically reduce the amount of cash to be shared around all 42 member clubs.
Motherwell have indicated that they are minded to do likewise should they be involved.
League rules state that 50% of all gate receipts from play-off matches are collected centrally, a levy which they insist is payable for all spectators who attend the matches. It is then distributed on a sliding scale, with the lion's share going to current Premiership clubs.
Hibs were given special dispensation last season, having been selling their season tickets before the play-off arrangements were finalised. An attempt by rebel clubs to see the levy reduced to 25% was recently defeated and the SPFL said they were determined to enforce their rules in this area.
"Our rule book is not a pick and mix," said SPFL chairman Ralph Topping. "Clubs who play in the league have a clear and vital duty to abide by the rules and not to disregard them when it suits.
"The rules on play-off levies and ticket pricing were agreed unanimously by all 42 clubs, including those likely to take part in this year's Premiership/Championship Play-Offs, less than two years ago and an attempt to amend them for the benefit of a limited few was overwhelmingly rejected by SPFL clubs at a general meeting just last week.
"These rules were introduced for the benefit of all 42 clubs, not a select few. That's democracy in action and it is a fundamental principle of the league. Everyone can see the dangers of trying to change rules part-way through the season, leading to accusations of self-interest and opportunism. An overwhelming majority of our 42 clubs voted to continue with the existing model and it is the clear duty of all clubs to respect the rules and the core principle of majority voting. To do otherwise risks the very fabric of the league."
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