Police mount large operation for 'Devon Derby'

Approximately 160 officers, including mounted officers from Avon and Somerset and South Wales Police, were deployed in a police operation aimed at ensuring Saturday lunchtime's 'Devon Derby' football match between Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City passed off with the minimum of trouble.

In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police report that the fixture "passed largely without incident before and during the match, with the vast majority of fans being well-behaved and...in good spirits.

"A small minority of individuals attempted to engage in disorder in the vicinity of the ground after the match but were dispersed by police. Away supporters were delayed in leaving the vicinity of the ground while this took place and are thanked for their patience."

The match at Home Park finished in a 1-0 victory for Plymouth Argyle, a crucial victory in their battle to avoid relegation from League Two.

Police confirmed that there were three arrests for public order offences and one officer suffered a minor injury during the relatively low level of disruption that flared up after the game. There were reports of chanting and missile throwing from a small section of the home fans but police appear to have played down these incidents.

The statement continued: "Devon and Cornwall Police would like to thank supporters from Plymouth and Exeter and officials from both clubs for their positive engagement with the Police."

Argyle's hard fought victory takes them four points clear of the relegation places in League Two. Jason Banton scored the game's only goal, his sixth since his loan move from Crystal Palace in January.