Police Separate Rival Fans During Southampton Portsmouth Derby

Southampton and Portsmouth supporters were separated by Hampshire Police during the first south coast derby of the season at St Mary's, where a controlled travel system was used to prevent violence and manage arrivals and departures.

The clubs continued a coach travel scheme requiring Portsmouth fans to attend through official transport from Fratton Park, with specially trained officers deployed around the stadium.

Before the match, Portsmouth supporters reacted differently to the police measures, which had been introduced after previous derby incidents and continued from the prior season. The system was described by some fans as a "bubble" arrangement.

Portsmouth fan Luke Allaway said the restrictions were excessive because other high-risk fixtures also have a history of violence.

"I thought the bubble was a bit "over the top" as other fixtures like Millwall games and "northern derbies" also have a "history of violence"." said Luke Allaway, Portsmouth fan.

Allaway added that the travel rules increased his costs and required an earlier start to his journey.

"I had to "pay about £20 extra" to travel to the game this way, as well as get up early." said Luke Allaway, Portsmouth fan.

Portsmouth fans Sonny Gillman and Lenny Way also discussed their experiences with the travel restrictions before the match.

"I thought the bubble was "way too much", "over bearing" and "too much money spent "." said Sonny Gillman, Portsmouth fan.

Lenny Way said the system had one positive aspect because it helped disabled supporters reach the stadium safely.

Southampton supporter Luke Smith backed the measures and said he felt protected while attending the match.

"I felt "safe" going to the match." said Luke Smith, Southampton fan.

Hampshire Police said the measures were designed to avoid violence similar to incidents during the 2019 derby at Fratton Park. According to the force, 21 people appeared in court over offences from last season's matches, including missile throwing, pitch invasions and criminal damage.

The convictions resulted in more than £10,000 in fines and Football Banning Orders totaling 61 years, according to Hampshire Police.

Assistant Chief Constable Simon Dodds said supporters had responded positively to the arrangements after the force received feedback about the measures.

"We received "a lot of positive feedback" about the measures, with supporters saying they were able to bring their families and children to matches when they might not otherwise have done so." said Simon Dodds, Assistant Chief Constable.