Police ask fans for respect

* Mary Papadakis
* From: Herald Sun
* June 19, 2010 4:06PM

POLICE have warned soccer fans to be on their best behaviour for Australia's clash with Ghana tonight.

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Andrew Crisp said police would be out in force to ensure crowds were well behaved.

"This is about people coming out and having a good time and supporting the Socceroos, but in doing so making sure they respect those around them," he said.

Mr Crisp warned thousands of soccer fans expected to attend Birrarung Marr for the game at midnight they faced fines and being arrested if found intoxicated or in possession of alcohol or flares.

He said fans would be fined $100 if in possession of open containers of alcohol and $234 if found to be drunk and disorderly, with a stint in the cells also likely.

Mr Crisp said he was confident in the ability of police to handle crowds.

"We have significant numbers to deal with any situation that may arise," he said.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/police-ask-fans-for-respect/story-e6frf7kx-1225881700260