Police set for Exeter v Plymouth clash

Last match was 'credit to both clubs'

One of the biggest matches in the local League One calendar is set to be played at Exeter City's St James Park on Saturday and Devon and Cornwall Police say they're ready for it.

They'll be on the streets in the city centre, at local railway stations and at the ground throughout the day to ensure everything goes safely.

Kick-off is at midday, with Plymouth Argyle battling for automatic promotion to the Championship, and Exeter City looking to cap they return to League One this season with a win over their local rivals.

With more than 8,000 fans are expected, the all-ticket game sold out some time ago.

The last time Plymouth played Exeter in a league match at St James Park was in 2019 when City were four-nil winners. Plymouth though were promoted into League One that season after it was abandoned because of covid.

Superintendent Tom Holmes, the officer in charge of the operation, said: “The match at Home Park in October was one of the best matches of the season and was a credit to both clubs, and that is the aim for the match at St James’ Park this Saturday; to be remembered for what takes place on the pitch.

“We are experienced in policing large scale sporting events, and we have worked with both clubs to ensure the Devon derby is policed appropriately. The vast majority of fans are a pleasure to work with and we look forward to welcoming them all to Exeter this weekend.”

Plymouth have sold out their allocation to their season ticket holders and the police are expecting around a half a dozen supporter coaches on the day. St James Road, behind the away end, will be closed on match day from 10.30 a.m. to 3 p.m. to allow for the away fans coaches to drop off, park and pick up fans at full time.

Pubs in and around the area will be open as usual. St Anne’s Well is currently the only pub in the area that will welcome Plymouth Argyle fans prior to the midday kick-off.

Police say Wetherspoon pubs in Exeter will not be serving alcohol before 11.30 a.m. on the day.

Supt Holmes added “Whilst the majority of fans will be in attendance to cheer their side on and to enjoy the match, there can be a small minority looking to cause disorder and we will be swift and robust in dealing with anyone intent on causing trouble.”

A spokesperson for Exeter City Football Club, said: “The Devon derby is an eagerly awaited match for both sets of fans and we’re very much looking forward to this sell-out fixture.

“We take great pride in creating a welcoming atmosphere at St James’ Park for all fans, and we’re grateful to Devon and Cornwall Police for their support for this match to enable everyone to safely enjoy an exciting game of football.”

The latest information on matchday will be tweeted via the @DCP_Football, the Force’s Football Unit dedicated twitter account.