As Albion's season heads towards a thrilling play-offs climax, the man leading the policing operation for the semi-final second leg with Crystal Palace at the Amex Stadium on Monday evening has called upon fans from both teams to let the match be remembered as a sporting spectacle, in much the same way as when the teams met in March.
Chief Inspector Paul Betts said, "Brighton & Hove Albion versus Crystal Palace is one of the most eagerly awaited derby matches in English football and the added possibility of the reward of Premier League football has certainly heightened expectations of a tense and close encounter.
"We were delighted with the behaviour of both sets of fans when the teams last met at the Amex and our policing was generally well-received all round. I am keen to see that repeated and would urge fans to enjoy the excitement and atmosphere of the match, but not be carried away by the hype surrounding it.
"Previous experience has shown that the intense rivalry between the two teams has tipped some previously law-abiding and responsible supporters over the edge into committing offences that have resulted in their arrests.
“We will isolate and deal positively with anyone whose intention is to take part in violence or any unacceptable behaviour. It's quite possible that one of the teams could be playing in the Premier League next season, so why risk a football banning order, club ban or criminal record because of a moment's hot-headedness?
"Passion and rivalry are all part of football, violence and hatred should not be. Don't get involved in things you would not normally; if you see something happening, step away and walk away.
"Finally, if you haven't got a ticket, please don't go to the ground. The match is being shown on television, so relax and enjoy it at home or at your local pub or club."
A capacity crowd of around 30,000 is expected for the 7.45pm kick-off and supporters are being reminded not to attempt to take alcohol into the ground. They can make use of the bins on the concourse outside the ground and at railway stations to deposit any containers of alcohol.
Searches will be taking place and anyone found with alcohol will have it taken away, along with their match ticket. Anyone under the influence of drink will also be turned away at the turnstiles.
Look out for Sussex Police updates on Twitter @suspolfootball leading up to the match and [MENTION=19110]Sussex[/MENTION]_police on the day - hashtag #seagullseagles.
Original article
Chief Inspector Paul Betts said, "Brighton & Hove Albion versus Crystal Palace is one of the most eagerly awaited derby matches in English football and the added possibility of the reward of Premier League football has certainly heightened expectations of a tense and close encounter.
"We were delighted with the behaviour of both sets of fans when the teams last met at the Amex and our policing was generally well-received all round. I am keen to see that repeated and would urge fans to enjoy the excitement and atmosphere of the match, but not be carried away by the hype surrounding it.
"Previous experience has shown that the intense rivalry between the two teams has tipped some previously law-abiding and responsible supporters over the edge into committing offences that have resulted in their arrests.
“We will isolate and deal positively with anyone whose intention is to take part in violence or any unacceptable behaviour. It's quite possible that one of the teams could be playing in the Premier League next season, so why risk a football banning order, club ban or criminal record because of a moment's hot-headedness?
"Passion and rivalry are all part of football, violence and hatred should not be. Don't get involved in things you would not normally; if you see something happening, step away and walk away.
"Finally, if you haven't got a ticket, please don't go to the ground. The match is being shown on television, so relax and enjoy it at home or at your local pub or club."
A capacity crowd of around 30,000 is expected for the 7.45pm kick-off and supporters are being reminded not to attempt to take alcohol into the ground. They can make use of the bins on the concourse outside the ground and at railway stations to deposit any containers of alcohol.
Searches will be taking place and anyone found with alcohol will have it taken away, along with their match ticket. Anyone under the influence of drink will also be turned away at the turnstiles.
Look out for Sussex Police updates on Twitter @suspolfootball leading up to the match and [MENTION=19110]Sussex[/MENTION]_police on the day - hashtag #seagullseagles.
Original article