SIDDY TAKE PRECAUTIONS

Manchester city has stepped up security plans ready for this season's
derby clash with rivals United.

The club will train cameras at the sections of the Maine Road crowd around
the corner flags to discourage a repeat of an incident in November 2000 when
David Beckham was struck by a coin.

This year rivalry between the clubs has been heightened by the well-
publicised feud between City player Alf-Inge Haaland and Reds captain Roy
Keane, who has admitted he deliberately tried to hurt his counterpart during
the following derby game in April.

City's stadium safety manager Peter Fletcher wants potential troublemakers to
know that any hooliganism will be caught on camera and perpetrators will be
prosecuted and banned from the club.

He said: "Following the incident of the coin throwing, clearly we will be
addressing that this year. There will be cameras on the corners."

Thirty-nine troublemakers are currently banned by City.

Manchester United declined to comment on security arrangements but a
source said: "There's no reason this season should be any different to
previous seasons and previous derbies."

Hundreds of officers are expected to police Maine Road on November 9 and
Old Trafford on February 8 to avoid trouble. More will be stationed in the city
centre to avoid drink-fuelled violence after the final whistle. A massive police
presence is expected to mirror operations the last time the clubs clashed two
seasons ago. Then, more than 360 officers formed a secure cordon to herd
United fans into Maine Road.

Early kick-off

Police insisted on an early kick-off and installed a booze ban. Trouble was
avoided but David Beckham was struck by a coin in a bad-tempered match
which boasted the biggest security operation since Euro '96. Police are
expected to mount similar operations for this season's derby fixtures.

However, officers will also be prepared for trouble between opposing Red and
Blue fans in the city centre after they have returned from fixtures against other
clubs.

Last season gangs of City and United hooligans clashed in High Street and
Church Street after the Blues had played away at Bradford and the Reds
played Leicester at home. Bottles, scaffolding poles and street furniture were
used as weapons. Police used spy camera footage to identify and convict 11
yobs. Seven were jailed and four were given community punishment orders.

Police may ask for timings of games, which are subject to alteration by the
broadcaster Sky, to be changed to avoid trouble.

A Greater Manchester Police spokeswoman said: "We have managed football
games successfully every year. Each game is examined and appropriate
plans are put in place to ensure that the fans can arrive safely, enjoy the
game and return home.

"This year the football fans will be given the opportunity to watch derby games
and we hope that they are enjoyable occasions for all concerned."