Financial benefit for Bairns' second placed finish

Falkirk directors have seen the balance sheet boosted this season by the second place finish. Picture: Michael Gillen.

Finishing runners-up in the league has benefits for Falkirk's finances, as well as the additional rest it gives the players.

The pay-out structure for the SPFL Championship means Falkirk will net just over £400,000 for their second-placed finish, plus play-off revenue which will be pooled, similar to a cup competition.

That is £65,000 more than the £337,000 third-placed Hibs will receive and £125,000 more than the Bairns budgeted for.

Business plan forecasts were written around a fourth place finish, which fell into line with Peter Houston’s aim to reach the play-offs but after surpassing that target on the field, they’ve bettered their balance at the bank too.

Add the extra income to the money-spinning Scottish Cup run last season, and the sales of Stephen Kingsley and Conor McGrandles, it all totals a lucrative spell for Falkirk during the Peter Houston era.

And he’s not finished yet after signing a contract extension earlier this year.