Officer injured as football fans pull down barriers
Police say serious disorder was averted despite an attempt by rival fans to reach each other.
A police officer sustained a minor injury during disturbances that erupted in Southampton streets following a south coast derby between Southampton and Portsmouth. Fans on both sides attempted to remove fencing to gain access to each other's territory, but police officers and stewards successfully prevented any breach of the barriers.
An investigation into the incident will be conducted using CCTV and drone footage to identify those responsible. Assistant Chief Constable Simon Dodds stated that the police operation was successful, with nearly 30,000 fans reaching and departing from the game safely. However, a minority of fans sought to cause disruption. Fans were separated by the police bubble system, requiring Portsmouth supporters to board coaches at Fratton Park to access St Mary's Stadium.
Portsmouth fan Luke Allaway expressed dissatisfaction with the security measures, finding them over the top and citing a history of violence at other fixtures.
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