A regional publisher has entered the subscription-based online sports news market with the launch of two new websites.
Newsquest has announced the launch of The Celtic Way and Rangers Review, aimed at supporters of the two Glasgow-based football clubs.
Readers will be able to access their preferred sites for £1 a month for the first six months, and £2.99 after that.
In a story announcing the titles’ launch, the Glasgow Times said they will be run “with a strong focus on fan culture and engagement with our journalists delivering insightful and entertaining content every day”.
The Celtic Way will be headed by veteran football writer Alison McConnell, Andy Bargh, Sean Martin and Tony Haggerty.
The Rangers Review will be run by Joshua Barrie, Derek Clark, and editor Jonny McFarlane.
Jonny said: “The Celtic Way and Rangers Review are two exciting new digital brands that will allow our journalists to focus on bringing the kind of content demanded in 2021.
“Our sites will feature the best-written content, from deep dives into events of the past to big interviews and tactical analysis.
“We will have a major multimedia focus and video reaction is a key part of what we do morning briefing broadcast rounding up the big talking points will go out every day as our team analysis what the news might mean for the club they cover.
“Podcast documentaries on big games from the past allow us to delve into the defining moments fans will never forget and bring a fresh perspective to those golden memories.”
The sites have teamed up with data providers Stats Bomb to ensure tactical analysis was a “key part of our offering”, Jonny added.
He said: “Opinions remain a huge part of what makes our game so compelling, and we have assembled a brilliant team of writers to bring you their perspective on the events of the day.
“You won’t always agree but we’re sure they will add to the debates of the day.
“The websites will put the fan first in the content we produce and will always keep that positive perspective front and centre, never forgetting what brought us all to this industry in the first place – our shared passion for the beautiful game.”
Subscription-based sports news site The Athletic has offered dedicated Rangers and Celtic channels since it launches in the UK in 2019.
Alison said: “It is a privilege to be asked to be part of an exciting new project that looks to deliver exceptional quality and content.
“The Celtic Way will offer scope for analysis and depth and provides a broad spectrum for an in-depth look at everything around the club.”
Recent reports suggest Rangers are currently planning to charge media outlets up to £25,000 for access this season, as reported yesterday by HTFP.