Neil Doncaster shares 'ongoing discussions' over SPFL match broadcasts as new streaming service launched

The new platform will see the production and broadcast of Championship, League One and Two matches outside the Saturday 3pm blackout, that is isn’t also selected for TV by BBC Scotland or BBC ALBA, chiefs providing this on behalf of clubs. It will be on a pay-per-view basis and all games in League One and League Two will be shown live on 15 August. Championship matches will also be shown, but not this weekend, amid some second tier involvement in the Premier Sports Cup last 16 phase.

It follows a trial in May where every SPFL play-off match was broadcast live and more non-blocked hour dates for this season include 12 September, 26 September, 14 November, 27 March and 1 May, alongside the possibility of more dates. Passes will cost £10.99 with revenue distributed back into clubs and SPFL CEO Doncaster said: “The launch of the SPFL Player is an important step forward for the league and our clubs, as well as great news for supporters.

Why have the SPFL launched a streaming platform?

“For the first time, fans in the UK and Ireland will be able to watch their team in the William Hill Championship, League 1 and League 2 whenever matches fall outside blocked hours — whether they're unable to attend on the day or following their club online. Following the success of last season's play-off broadcasts, we've been in ongoing discussions with clubs about new ways to enhance the production quality of matches, and the SPFL Player delivers that while returning revenue directly to them.

“It’s easy, simple and secure for fans to buy a live stream. They just need to go online to www.spflplayer.com and follow the prompts, and the money generated will directly financially help their club. We’d lastly like to thank our clubs for their collaborative work to make this possible, and hope supporters enjoy this new offering this season.”

A statement adds: “The SPFL has launched a new live domestic streaming offering which will see the league produce and broadcast William Hill Championship, League 1 & 2 matches outside blocked hours on behalf of clubs on a pay-per-view basis. Coverage will begin with live coverage of all William Hill League 1 and League 2 matches taking place this Saturday, 15 August.

What is SPFL Player?

“It will stream league matches across the three divisions not already aired by BBC Scotland or BBC ALBA on matchdays where broadcast blocked hours are not applicable. Matches in William Hill League 1 and 2 are available to purchase this Saturday, due to the reduced league card around the Premier Sports Cup last 16. The move follows the successful trial by the SPFL in May, which saw every single William Hill SPFL play-off match broadcast live for the first time, and positive discussions with clubs around looking at new ways to further improve the delivery of live matches.

“A 24-hour pass to watch your club’s match costs £10.99 and is available for fans in the UK and Ireland, plus supporters will be able to view all of the non-top-flight league matches taking place that day on catch up. The SPFL will produce and stream the matches, with revenue distributed back to the home club in each fixture. Non-blocked hour dates for this season include 15 August, 12 September, 26 September, 14 November, 27 March and 1 May, plus further potential dates to be confirmed in due course. Further details will be provided on which games can be purchased on the SPFL Player as the season progresses.”