Culture clubs will cut down the madness

Aug 24 2008

GORDON STRACHAN reckons the first Old Firm game of the season could be more of a culture shock for the fans than the players.

The teams go head to head next Sunday in an early-season showdown destined to lay down markers for the months ahead.

But the Celtic boss believes new faces on both sides of the divide can keep the usual mayhem to a minimum at Parkhead.

They split the spoils six points apiece last season but the Hoops won the two crucial closers at Celtic Park amid a rash of red cards.

However, last term the rivals played 30 games between them before facing off - this time there has hardly been time to crank up the tension.

Strachan said: "They seemed to take a long time coming last season - the first derby was nearly the end of October then the next one was a five-month wait.

"But this season it's BANG, here we go again. Let's have a look though, eh? See what the early-season form is.

"It won't be as hectic as the final two Old Firm games last season - I think it will be a bit more cultured, believe it or not. The signings on both sides will make it that way."

Then he laughed: "But is that what people really want?"