Aberdeen fans’ oompah band hits back after Hibs ban

A TRUMPETER has accused Hibs bosses of running scared after his German-style brass band was banned from Easter Road – because of the size of their instruments.

Members of the Bierhoff Oompah Band, which plays at Aberdeen home matches, had planned to make their presence felt from the away end at the club’s Scottish Cup fifth round clash with Hibs next month.

However, as only small drums are allowed into the stadium, the band’s instruments, which include sousaphones, a flugelhorn and a trombone, won’t get through the turnstiles.

Band founder and trumpet player Simon McCullogh hit out at the ruling, and goaded Hibees by saying he believed the decision had been taken because his band may be louder than the home support.

The 24-year-old said: “Hibs won’t let us play and we are very disappointed. Motherwell welcomed us with open arms when we went to Fir Park, so it does seem a bit unfair.”

The Bierhoff Oompah Band, based in Cumbria, was hired by Aberdeen supporters last month to play at their home stadium, Pittodrie, to help boost the atmosphere.

The band’s appearances coincided with an upturn in fortunes for the side, managed by ex-Scotland boss Craig Brown, leading some Aberdeen fans to believe they bring good luck.

Mr McCullogh added: “It helps create an atmosphere and I think we have been Aberdeen’s lucky charm. Every time we have been there, they have done well.”

Mike Riley, chairman of Hibs Supporters Association, said he would have had no concerns about the band drowning out the Easter Road faithful.

“The club must have its reasons, but it wouldn’t have made any difference to us,” he said.

A Hibs spokesman said that a ban on instruments had been relaxed, allowing supporters groups to take drums to matches as long as they had given prior warning to the club.

He added: “Aberdeen FC have received full details of what is permitted.”

A spokesman for Aberdeen said: “It is disappointing they are not going to be there but it is up to the host club to decide.”

Meanwhile, HEARTS today claimed the oompah band would not be banned from Tynecastle.

The club said: “Providing a music band is affiliated to the visiting club concerned, we would welcome such an organisation to matches.

“The club recognises that the involvement of supporters is a vital part of making the event enjoyable.”

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