LIVE SFL MATCHES TO BE SCREENED ON BBC ALBA

The Scottish Football League and BBC ALBA are delighted to announce a new package of five live matches to be shown on the channel before the end of this season.

The first match to be shown as part of the deal will be the first division match between Partick Thistle and Greenock Morton at Firhill on Monday 4th January. Coverage of the game will begin at 7.30pm with kick off at 7.45pm.

Extending BBC ALBA’s coverage of the SFL, a special package will be broadcast during the programme with highlights from the matches taking place on Saturday 2 January including the derby between Inverness CT and Ross County.

Two further matches from the Scottish Football League will be broadcast on the channel during April and May 2010 before BBC ALBA presents exclusive coverage of the SFL1 playoff finals at the end of this season.

Alan Esslemont, head of content for BBC ALBA, said: “We are pleased to once again be able to announce a new live package of great SFL fixtures for viewers. The opportunity to show exciting live matches as the season moves towards its conclusion was one that was extremely appealing for BBC ALBA.

“Since its inception, BBC ALBA has shown its commitment to showcasing both grassroots and professional sport and these games will enhance our comprehensive sports package which already includes the ‘as-live’ broadcasting of SPL matches on Saturday nights and live coverage of the Challenge Cup.”

David Longmuir, chief executive of the SFL, said: “The new agreement between the Scottish Football League and BBC ALBA to screen live league matches will provide a boost to SFL clubs and ensure that the league receives the coverage that it deserves.

“Everyone is delighted that BBC ALBA has once again shown their support for SFL and we believe the relationship between the league and the channel is one that is extremely beneficial for both parties.

“We hope that the fans will be happy with the news that provides supporters with the opportunity to watch further coverage of a range of competitive and entertaining Scottish matches live on television.”


BBC ALBA is currently available on Digital Satellite, on Sky 168, Freesat 110 and live on BBC iPlayer. Ten hours of content per week is also available to view on demand via the BBC PC iPlayer and the BBC iPlayer on Cable. For further information see www.bbcalba.co.uk