Tynecastle in semi running

HIBS' CIS Cup semi-final against First Division leaders St Johnstone could be played at Tynecastle, it emerged today.

Although no decision has been taken by the Scottish Football League on the venues for the semi-finals, the Gorgie ground is under active consideration with Hampden seen as the only other possible alternative.

The SFL are currently talking to the clubs - Kilmarnock and Falkirk will contest the other semi-final - and, as yet, even the dates on which each match will take place have to be confirmed, although they are due to be played on January 30 and 31.

Confirming that Tynecastle, with a capacity of 17,300, was a possibility, David Thomson, assistant secretary of the SFL, today said: "The matter is being discussed with the four semi-finalists and we are looking at all the options, possible venues and their availability.

"There's no requirement to take all semi-finals to Hampden and we try to ensure the venue chosen reflects well on the competition by having a good atmosphere for the greater good of the game, for our sponsors and the players taking part."

The fact the matches are taking place mid-week at a time of year when supporters are still recovering financially from the expense of Christmas and New Year, which could affect the size of the crowds will be a factor.

The possibility of poor weather will also be taken into consideration, as will the fact BBC Scotland are contracted to televise one of the ties live.

The broadcaster has still to determine which match it would like to screen, a decision which will affect which night the games will be played.

However, last season BBC decided to televise both semi-finals, between Celtic and Motherwell and Dunfermline and Livingston, a move which resulted in the games being played a week apart rather than on successive evenings.

Tynecastle has been used for semi-finals of both the League and Scottish Cups in the past, Hibs beating Dundee United in Gorgie to reach the League Cup final in 1993 while Dunfermline and Airdrie contested the penultimate round two years earlier and United and Aberdeen fought out a semi there in season 1997/98.

Hearts, too, have travelled in the opposite direction to play League Cup semi-finals at Easter Road most recently against Dundee, St Johnstone and Motherwell.

However, it is believed Hibs would prefer that this season's semi-final goes ahead at Hampden with its larger playing surface more suited to the style of football which John Collins demands from his side.