In a dramatic twist for Scottish football's promotion race, Linlithgow Rose have been ruled out of the SPFL pyramid play-offs due to a licensing issue. Despite clinching the Lowland League title, the club confirmed their ineligibility after their application for a grace period to meet SFA bronze licence criteria was declined by the SPFL board.

This administrative setback has reshaped the entire play-off picture. Instead of facing Linlithgow, Highland League champions Brora Rangers now receive a bye directly into the two-legged final. They will meet Edinburgh City, who finished bottom of League 2, with the winner earning a place in next season's SPFL League Two.

For Linlithgow Rose, the disappointment is palpable after a hard-fought campaign where they edged out Clydebank by just two points for the Lowland League crown. The club has stated it is taking steps to secure the necessary licence for future assessments, but this season's dream has been cut short off the pitch.

This scenario is a familiar sting in the pyramid system. Just last year, East Kilbride benefited from a similar semi-final walkover when Buckie Thistle lacked the required licence. East Kilbride's subsequent promotion and current position atop League 2 shows the high stakes of these play-offs.

All eyes now turn to the final between Brora Rangers, who won the Highland League by a single point over Brechin City, and Edinburgh City. The first leg is set for May 9th at Brora's home ground, with the return leg on May 16th deciding which club secures their place in the SPFL for the 2024-25 season.