Pompey condemn '˜fans' tarnishing club's image after arrests in city

Police horses from Thames Valley Police had to intervene during the scuffle in Goldsmith Avenue at its junction with Talbot Road, Southsea.

It comes after Pompey were defeated 3-0 by the Welsh side at Fratton Park.

Three Pompey fans were arrested along with one Newport County fan during the day.

Two of those arrests were made during the public order incident in Goldsmith Avenue after the match, police said.

Pompey have since condemned the actions of all those involved in the altercation, saying incidents like this tarnishes the club’s reputation.

Speaking to The News a club spokesman said: ‘It is unfortunate to hear that there has been an incident like this at the game.

‘Of course we condemn any anti-social behaviour by our fans who are involved in incidents such as this.

‘It’s a pity that there are a few who tarnish the club’s name like this when the overwhelming majority of our fans give fantastic support to Pompey and are a credit to the club.’

The match had been classified as a potential risk game due to previous encounters.

In comes after rowdy scenes erupted among fans before and after Pompey’s clash with Oxford United in January.

Officers were called to the Red, White and Blue pub, in Fawcett Road, in response to a public order offence.

A number of police officers – some on police horses – escorted a group of fans along Fawcett Road and Goldsmith Avenue.

Tensions ran high, prompting police to deploy dog units and contain a number of fans at the Lidl car park until peace was restored.