More Police than Millwall Fans today,Bristol Rovers away
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http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/brist ... itch-40444
Police used dogs to prevent anyone invading the pitch at the Memorial Stadium after Bristol Rovers' final match of the season.
Dozens of police officers lined the streets surrounding the ground in a match where tensions were high.
Fans of opponents Millwall, who needed to win to confirm their place in the League One play-offs, had the second-highest number of arrests for any English club last season.
But despite several incidents where officers had to go into the away stand to quell trouble, no arrests were made.
Rovers fans appeared in good spirits as they exited the ground after the full-time whistle, despite watching their side concede a late goal in the 86th minute to lose the match 4-3.
The midday clash was designated an official ‘police match’ earlier this week and there were officers on foot, horseback and in riot vans situated in Filton Avenue, Gloucester Road and the B4469.
Despite reports of an incident behind the Dribuild Stand at half-time, the larger-than-usual police presence at the match and in the Horfield area appeared to prevent any potential altercations from breaking out among rival fans.
Even when transporting Millwall fans back to Parkway train station on foot, supporters from both sides appeared jovial and good-humoured.
An Avon and Somerset force spokesman said: "We're pleased to confirm that no arrests were made at the Bristol Rovers v Millwall game earlier today.
"We did use our dog unit at the end of the match to prevent anyone from running onto the pitch.
"We'd like to thank fans of both teams for their behaviour at the game."