ARCHIE Macpherson last night insisted footie supporters can be trusted to enjoy a pint as he backed the proposed return of booze to stadiums. The veteran broadcaster, 88, watched on in horror from the Hampden Park commentary box as fans rioted at the 1980 Scottish Cup Final. Chiefs imposed an alcohol ban the next year in a bid to ensure the ugly scenes were not repeated. Four decades on, Archie reckons match-goers have learned their lesson and should be allowed to enjoy a few bevvies at SPFL matches. But after witnessing chaos caused by boozed-up yobs he insisted alcohol consumption at games, if reintroduced, must be properly “supervised”. Archie, who covered six World Cups, said: “I have seen the effect of uncontrolled drinking. “I witnessed what happened at Hampden at the 1980 Cup Final. “Clashes can and did happen. But people learn from mistakes. “I do think it would be sensible under controlled conditions to introduce alcohol again. “There has to be supervision of some kind. “The vast majority of supporters understand rights and wrongs.” Since the booze ban came into force in 1981, supporters have only been able to enjoy alcohol at stadium hospitality suites. Top cops and SPFL bosses have discussed overturning the measures on a trial basis. John Swinney dealt the moves a blow last week when he revealed he was “not sympathetic”. Anti-drink campaigners backed the First Minister’s concerns and highlighted Scotland’s 1,277 alcohol deaths in 2023. Former cops have also raised the alarm about a return to the era of boozed-up supporters causing “carnage”. And ex-detective Simon McLean last night accused bosses of putting profits over safety. Slamming the proposals, he said: “It’s an absolute no-no as far as an old copper is concerned. Alcohol was the single biggest problem surrounding sporting events — and it still is, which is why it’s regulated. “What’s the point? Profit for the clubs and alcohol companies. “To bring it back on to the terraces would be folly.” Scotland fans were hailed for their friendly banter at last summer's Euros in Germany, where they drank host cities dry. But Simon warned of more trouble at Celtic-Rangers derbies and international matches. He recalled: “We used to lock up 120 to 140 people during and after every Old Firm game and it will go back to that. “Mixing high-tension sporting events, opposing supporters and alcohol is nonsense. Who are we kidding? The editor of the Famous Tartan Army magazine has also backed the pints for fans call. Iain Emmerson said footsoldiers displayed “impeccable” behaviour at Euro 2024, despite the strong German beer. He added: “The Tartan Army have proven that they should be trusted. “Also, I don’t see why football fans should be treated differently from rugby fans. “I was at that Scottish Cup Final in 1980. It was bad, but it was a minority. I don’t see why the majority should suffer all those years.”Iain also questioned why hospitality punters are allowed alcohol when average fans are not. He said: “Everyone should have the opportunity.” Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page