The Metropolitan Police have issued a statement regarding the upcoming fixture between Leeds United and Millwall.
The two sides, known for their violence will be under close scrutiny as the FA allow approx. 2000 Leeds fans to travel to London for the match, hoping that the carnage of window smashing and bin bashing is not continued, as Wall and White fans respectively have been photographed or videoed doing so on past away days.
The statement, issued on the official club website Leedsunited.com reads:
“The Metropolitan Police Service is working closely with Millwall Football Club and British Transport Police to ensure the forthcoming Millwall vs Leeds United fixture is safe and trouble-free for fans planning to attend.
The MPS and it’s partners will put in place a pan-London operation on match day, Saturday 19.04.08.
MPS officers from across London, supported by colleagues from BTP, will be at the Millwall ground and throughout London for the event, providing a robust high-visibility presence to reassure fans and the local community, and employing a range of tactics to identify and target troublemakers.
Whilst there is no specific intelligence to suggest that acts of organised disorder are planned, we remain committed to ensuring The Den remains a safe place for all to watch football.
We encourage both Millwall and Leeds United fans to work with us to create a pleasant and safe atmosphere to allow everyone to enjoy the day.
We remind Leeds Utd supporters that they will not be able to purchase tickets on the day of the match; we therefore advise anyone without tickets not to travel to the game.
Superintendent BJ Harrington of Lewisham police said: ‘Our overall aim is to facilitate law-abiding fans’ travel to and from the match and create a safe environment for them to enjoy the game itself. We’ve been working closely with the clubs and other agencies involved to make sure this happens.
‘We want to send a clear message to fans that we will police match day fairly but firmly to ensure the game passes without incident and allow true football fans to enjoy the day.
‘Our message to people planning to attend is simple; if you’re coming to enjoy the game safely and legally, we’re here to help you do that; if you plan to cause trouble you will find your efforts thwarted.”
So behave yourselves Leeds fans, don’t let us down and if there must be claims of “thug violence” let it be the Londoners that receive the criticism!
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