The south coast’s most heated football rivalry returns this Sunday as Southampton and Portsmouth prepare to face off in the league for the first time since 2012. With anticipation building ahead of the much-anticipated derby, Southampton police say they have left nothing to chance to ensure the match is remembered for all the right reasons.
For months, specialist teams from Hampshire Constabulary have been working closely with both clubs to plan a major policing operation designed to keep fans safe and let the football take centre stage. Assistant Chief Constable Tony Rowlinson, who is leading the operation, said the scale of preparation reflects the passion and history surrounding the fixture.
“We know how exciting this first derby game is for the fans and we’ve got many supporters of both teams working within our force who share that excitement,” Rowlinson said. “That is why we have been working incredibly hard with the clubs to make sure that this game is a success for everyone involved and showcases the very best of the game.”
With both fixtures this season being run with club-managed travel arrangements, police have tailored their approach to support this, co-ordinating with the clubs on the safe arrival and departure of all supporters. Fans can expect to see a visible police presence around the ground, including specially trained officers in protective equipment, as well as discreet tactics and technology such as drones to monitor crowd movements.
Rowlinson explained: “Our priority for any event such as this is, of course, public safety and our approach to this game is focused around this. We know that most fans just want to go to the game and enjoy the unique atmosphere this fixture brings, and we’ve been working with supporters’ groups to help ensure those going to the game feel safe. They’ve been a key part of this for us and I’d like to thank them for their support throughout this process so far.”
The force has drawn on significant experience policing previous encounters between the two clubs and is prepared for any eventuality, with specialist teams ready to respond swiftly to any troublemakers. “Sadly, we know that there may be a small minority who try to ruin this game for everyone else, but that is why our policing operation is ready to respond swiftly to stop any disruption,” said Rowlinson.
He added that recent matches had resulted in more than 20 convictions and lengthy Football Banning Orders, and reminded fans that the use of flares or pyrotechnics is a criminal offence that could lead to a ban from football grounds for up to ten years.
Fans are also being urged to plan their journeys carefully, with engineering works scheduled at Southampton Central train station on Sunday. “I’d just like to take the opportunity to remind those Southampton fans who would usually look to use the train network to bear this in mind and check online with those agencies to avoid delays on the day,” Rowlinson said.
Police, clubs, the council and transport agencies have all worked together to make sure fans have the latest information, and officers will be on hand throughout the day to provide help and reassurance. “For those fans who have any concerns on Sunday, go and speak to one of our officers, they are there for your safety,” Rowlinson advised.
As the countdown continues, police are urging all supporters to do their clubs proud, no matter what happens on the pitch. “Be passionate and support your team in the right way,” he said. “We’re looking forward to playing our part in ensuring this game is safe and enjoyable for all, no matter who goes home with the points.”
