Police promise 'visible presence' for upcoming Black Country derby at Molineux | OneFootball

West Midlands Police has said it will provide a visible presence at Molineux for this month’s Black Country derby after major disorder marred Wolves’ FA Cup visit to West Bromwich Albion in January.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, the force is already working with partners on plans for the clash on Sunday, September 20. It will be the first league Black Country derby played in front of supporters since the 2011/12 Premier League season.

The rivals’ FA Cup tie at The Hawthorns was halted for more than 30 minutes amid serious disorder, with players taken off. Security will be closely watched when the fixture returns to Molineux.

Superintendent Tim Robinson, who leads the operation, said preparations focus on ensuring fans enjoy the occasion safely. He added officers are experienced in policing derbies and will deploy enough resources to provide a visible presence and respond to any issues.

Demand has been strong, with Albion’s 2,550 allocation in the lower tier of the Steve Bull Stand sold out. Tickets went first to away members, then in staggered windows for loyalty points holders. The club confirmed the sell-out on Friday morning and said it was unsurprised.

There had been rumours of a bubble match designation, adding restrictions for travelling supporters. No such measures were set out when tickets went on sale.

The clubs were both in the Premier League in 2020-21, when matches were played without fans during the Covid pandemic. The return meeting at The Hawthorns is scheduled for the weekend of February 20.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com

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