Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes hopes the Red Army can still pack out Hampden for the Betfred Cup semi-final despite their “frustration” and “anger” at the noon kick-off.
The Dons will face Rangers at the national stadium at noon on Sunday October 28. In an unprecedented move the other semi-final between Celtic and Hearts will also be staged at Hampden on the same day at 7.45pm.
Aberdeen fans’ groups have criticised the SPFL’s scheduling.
McInnes believes the kick-off time is unfair on Dons fans. He hopes measures such as entering into discussions with train companies can be taken to lessen the inconvenience to Reds’ supporters.
He said: “When the semi-final comes round we hope there is a real solidarity with us, the club, and our supporters.
“We hope that we find ways to get our supporters down there, whether that is getting into some negotiations with train companies.
“There will be loads of buses on the roads.
“It is a special day and just one step away from getting to a final so we need everybody on board.
“Some people’s first reaction might be ‘stuff it, I’m not going’, but it is important we don’t try to do ourselves in and go there strong, together and with a huge support to try to get the result on the day.
“But I totally understand the frustration and the anger towards the decision.
“Our supporters will now face difficulties getting there for what is such an important game in our season.
“For us to make it the best spectacle and the opportunity for our fans to see it, it is unfair.”
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