Just three arrests at Wolves versus Birmingham City derby

Nov 30 2009 by Matt Lloyd, Birmingham Mail

A LARGE police presence saw the Black Country derby between Wolves and Birmingham pass with only three arrests.

Marred by trouble in recent years, the clash between the rivals was heavily policed with officers and dogs positioned around Molineux and the city centre for yesterday’s match.

Wolverhampton railway and bus stations, the scenes of previous clashes, were closely monitored as fans left the city after Blues took all three points with a one-nil win. The noon kick-off saw pubs closed and local stores barred from selling alcohol until after midday.

Insp Richard Vickers, from West Midlands Police, praised the officers on the ground and the fans for their behaviour.

He said: “It’s been a peaceful match. There were three arrests for low level public order incidents but in the main it was a very happy environment and both sets of fans were very well behaved. It was a successful day.”

REPORT: PAGE 24