Hope for fans as Portsmouth chief is open to south-coast derby 'bubble' alternatives

Pompey are willing to consider alternatives to the club-managed travel provisions that have been in place since last season’s return of the south-coast derby.

Blues chief executive Andy Cullen has confirmed the Fratton Park side are not ‘wedded to the bubble arrangements’ which sees all away fans from each club bussed in and out of their rivals’ ground under a police escort.

Two thousand five hundred Pompey fans had that experience for a second time last Sunday, with coaches leaving from official pick-up points at Fratton Park, Lakeside North Harbour and Winchester Park & Ride.

Additional conditions were placed on those who travelled, including the need to show ID and no food or drink, bar water. allowed on the convoy of buses that left PO4 at 8.55am.

Speaking in his programme notes ahead of the midweek win against Sheffield United, Cullen admitted the current arrangements would remain in place for Southampton’s visit to Fratton Park in February.

However, they do remain the subject of review. Although the main objective remains constant - creating a safe, secure and enjoyable environment for all fans.

‘There has naturally been discussion regarding such arrangements for future derby fixtures,’ wrote Cullen.

‘I do understand that many would prefer a more traditional away-day. The challenge is finding the right balance between supporter experience and safety.

‘On the positive side, we have now had three of these meetings that have taken place relatively without incident and that is important.

‘The club are not wedded to ‘bubble’ arrangements – we are wedded to safe arrangements. We continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to review every aspect of these matches.

‘Our shared objective remains straightforward – creating a safe, secure and enjoyable environment for fans while preserving the atmosphere and passion that make these occasions so special.

‘Along with our neighbours, we will continue to review and plan future arrangements after they have visited us here in February.’

Following Sunday’s fixture at St Mary’s - a game Pompey lost 1-0 - Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary told The News that only four people were arrested in connection with the match, none of whom were from Portsmouth.

With that in mind, Cullen added: ‘Sunday was tough to take for all of us connected to the club. We know that these meetings are no ordinary games and just how much they mean to fans.

‘Defeat in the derby upset us all and the pain will continue to linger for some time. Despite the hurt and disappointment, one thing that should not be overlooked is the magnificent backing you (the fans) provided throughout.

‘The noise, passion and loyalty shown by everyone in blue were outstanding.

‘On behalf of everyone at the club, thank you for your support and on a difficult day, for standing together with the team after the final whistle.

‘Once again, we witnessed the defiance and togetherness that are the hallmarks of being Pompey and which distinguish your football club from so many others when the going gets tough.’

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