ST JOHNSTONE will increase the allocation given to Rangers and Celtic supporters for their remaining matches against the Old Firm at McDiarmid Park this term.

Away fans have been housed in the North and South Stands for some time but the Saints have struggled to attract home crowds in recent years.

More tickets will now be handed over to the Old Firm and a statement read: “The new road and safety requirements, which involve and affect the safety aspects of these fixtures has resulted in material changes in the way in which Celtic and Rangers fixtures will require to be administered in the future

“With this in mind, the Board has carefully considered how best to deal with these challenges, taking into account the safety, comfort and interests of our Fans and the overall impact on the Club both from an administrative and financial perspective.

“With the foregoing in mind, the Board has decided to trial the remaining matches this season against both Celtic FC and Rangers FC, with an increased allocation to away fans and all Saints fans will be accommodated in the West Stand. This stand accommodates in excess of 3000 fans, which going by recent analysis will be sufficient to accommodate the projected likely number of attendees from our home support.”