POLICE have given their response to Tuesday night's clash at Fratton Park between bitter rivals Portsmouth FC and Southampton having previously stated they hoped the match would be 'safe'. The eagerly awaited Hampshire Senior Cup encounter saw Pompey beat their south coast rivals 5-2 in a game full of incidents that saw Southampton players sent off and players from both sides fighting.
Olly Lancashire, 33, who was signed by the Saints for the U23s to 'help the players progress mentally and set the standard of good behaviour' was sent off in the second half - sparking the clash. But even though the infamous match was marred by past troubles - with jail terms awarded for violent disorder - the match went off without issue among fans, according to police.
Pompey supporters were stationed at Fratton End while Saints fans were in small pockets at the other end of the pitch at Milton End. A total of 2,542 fans attended. Despite the relatively low-key nature of the game compared to previous games, the police are still taking no chances ahead of the game.
A spokesman said last month: “Our football unit works closely with both clubs and have worked closely with them since the Senior Cup second round fixtures were announced by the Hampshire FA. "We will have officers present to ensure the match is safe for all present." And the police have now confirmed there were no problems among fans. "Last night went without incident, which is good news," a police spokesman said.
"We continue to work closely with both clubs to ensure football fans can safely enjoy themselves." Ahead of the match, Portsmouth FC issued a warning to fans in attendance at Fratton Park.
"Only those in the club's ticket database (supporters who have purchased tickets for the Pompey game before 3 October) can purchase tickets for this match," said a statement on the club's website.
'Please note that all home fans will be seated at Fratton End.
‘Fans can purchase a maximum of five tickets per transaction and a Client ID must be assigned to each ticket. 'Please note that the Victory Bar will not be open for tonight's match.'