Footy rivalry no excuse for matchday trouble

So-called fans that use the North East's famous football rivalry to cause bother are not welcome in our cities.

- SOPHIE DOUGHTY

That's the view of the top police officer who will be at the helm of operations to police the always tense clashes between Newcastle United and Sunderland AFC this season.

And as Northumbria Police gears up for policing the first premier league Tyne-Wear derbies for a number of years, the force's policing lead, Chief Supt Mark Hall, has warned that anyone who sees the games as an excuse to commit crime could see themselves banned from games.

Matches between Newcastle United and Sunderland have historically attracted disorder and resulted in numerous arrests.

But recent fixtures have passed off more peacefully after Northumbria Police changed the way it handled matchday policing, and as rifts between the two sets of fans were healed following the MH17 plane tragedy.

While Chief Supt Hall is hoping this atmosphere can continue, he is warning that anyone causing trouble could face serious consequences, with both police and football clubs taking action.

He said: “We are really fortunate in the North East and we are renowned for being very loyal and passionate football fans. It’s fantastic that this season we have Newcastle and Sunderland playing in the same league. With Newcastle getting back into Europe and Sunderland gaining promotion there's a lot of excitement, I think it’s going to be a thrilling season.

“Those genuine fans want to come for a family friendly environment. The majority of fans don’t want to see people fighting, they don’t want to see disorder.

“It’s a minority that use the opportunity to commit crime and antisocial behaviour. These people aren't welcome in our cities.