Sunderland versus Middlesborough derby football match at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, April 26 at 3pm saw a large police presence both in the city and in and around the stadium.
Overall the match took place without serious disorder, however 27 people were arrested during the course of Saturday.
Up to 3,000 away fans attended the match and many fans from both sides were drinking in the city centre both before and after the match. This did lead to isolated clashes of fans, with police quickly intervening to prevent problems from escalating.
Overall, 27 people were arrested for a variety of drink related offences and to prevent the commission of public order offences
24 were arrested inside the ground, 3 were arrested outside the ground and none of those arrested remain in custody.
Chief Supt Neil Mackay, head of the force’s operations unit said: "The vast majority of fans behaved well and there was clearly a great atmosphere at the stadium for both sets of supporters to enjoy. 24 arrests out of a crowd of 45,000 is still extremely low. I would like to thank all stewards for their help and commend the actions of police officers who remained professional at all times and who managed to diffuse difficult situations quickly.
"Public safety is always our priority during any football match this means any individual or groups of people who pose a risk to public safety will be promptly dealt with by Northumbria Police."
