Significant police operation for Ballymena v Coleraine cup clash

A significant police presence is promised for Saturday's much-anticipated Irish Cup tie between Ballymena United and Coleraine FC.

By The Newsroom

Published 3rd Mar 2017, 15:44 BST

Updated 24th Mar 2017, 11:08 BST

Coleraine FC general manager Stevie McCann with Sergeant Terry McKenna representing PSNI at the local launch of #LoveYourClub

In an appeal to fans ahead of the quarter-final game at Ballymena Showgrounds, the PSNI posted on Facebook: “We want everyone going to the game to have a good footballing experience and to enjoy the game.

“There will be a significant police operation between Coleraine and Ballymena to ensure crowd safety and that there is no public disorder.

“Any behaviour that is unlawful will be dealt with robustly. So make sure you are going to the match for football reasons!”

Police have teamed up with the Irish League clubs to encourage supporters to show respect and tolerance with representatives from both sides recording video clips for sharing on social media in the lead up to derby encounters.