Tennents Scottish Cup semi-finalists Falkirk have shocked the football world by announcing they have gone into provisional liquidation.

The move comes just a fortnight before the First Division team are due to meet Hearts at Ibrox in the last-four clash.

Falkirk, who are also bidding for promotion, are expected to be able to carry out their fixtures to the end of the season.

But to secure their long-term future a new owner is viewed as essential because of the rising debts faced by the board.

Cash boost

The club's chairman, George Fulston, said the appointment of a provisional liquidator was an effort to "remove the immediate pressure from creditors and to take the club forward".

He said supporters should rise to the challenge "as the survival of the club is paramount".

The club is understood to be £1.5m in debt, of which the Inland Revenue is owed £400,000. The sum is estimated to be rising by around £30,000 a month.

A liquidator has been appointed despite the club's expectation of a cash boost from an appearance in the Cup semi-final.

Mr Fulston, who is a major shareholder, warned early in the season that he could not continue putting money into the club.

Earlier this month, players appealed to the Scottish Players' Union, saying they had not received promised money for signing on fees.

Back to top | BBC News Home | BBC Homepage	©