Kick-off times 'up to police'

THE Scottish Football Association today said police will always have the final say on the scheduling of Scotland's international matches.

Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill has called for early kick-offs at important Scotland games to cut alcohol-related crime.

He wants to avoid a repeat of violence which followed the crunch Euro 2008 qualifier with Italy last November, which started at 5pm.

The SFA insist police already have a crucial say in the timing of games, and will continue to do so.