Police issue advice ahead of Liverpool v Manchester City match

Merseyside Police is working with Liverpool FC and Manchester City ahead of their Premier League match at Anfield this coming Sunday, 10 March, to ensure fans, players and staff of both clubs have a safe and enjoyable afternoon.

Chief Inspector Iain Wyke, who is match commander on the day, said: "As with any match, a comprehensive and proportionate policing operation has been put in place ahead of Sunday’s game and we have liaised with both clubs and their supporter groups.

“We are working to ensure this game can be enjoyed safely by all, whilst at the same time minimising any disruption to local residents and on the roads.
 
"As with all Premier League fixtures at Anfield, we will have officers on duty at the ground and the surrounding area, both uniformed and plain clothed, supported by CCTV, the Dog Section, mounted police and other specialist resources. We will also have a city centre policing plan in place throughout the day. 

"Our policing style will be firm, fair and friendly, but officers will not tolerate any tragedy chanting, which became an offence under legislation last year, the throwing of missiles or the use of pyrotechnics inside or outside of the stadium. We will take action, where necessary, against those individuals who may seek to cause problems or misbehave and spoil the day for the majority of supporters

"While recognising that some supporters feel the use of pyrotechnics add to the atmosphere of the occasion, the use of flares and other pyrotechnics at and around football matches is a concern and is extremely dangerous and reckless practice, so we would supporters to work with us and refrain from using any pyrotechnics.

"The police and courts take these offences extremely seriously and prosecution can result in a prison sentence.” 

He added: “Merseyside Police is committed to ensuring that everyone involved and attending the game has a safe and enjoyable experience and we will not tolerate any criminal, or anti-social behaviour.

"As usual we would ask fans with tickets to arrive at the ground as early as possible. Fans without tickets should not attend at all; they will not be allowed entry into the stadium."