Bet McLean Cup Final Linfield v Portadown Sunday 10th March 24

For the Linfield Club Website and social media platforms

Police are requesting that Linfield fans travelling by car and coach to the Bet McLean League cup final with Portadown at the National Stadium, Windsor Park, on Sunday 10th March 2024 with a 1500 hrs kick off, leave sufficient travel time to arrive at the match.

Entry to the ground for Linfield supporters will be via the Donegall Avenue entrance to the National Stadium. Stewards will then direct supporters to their seats.

If you are driving to the match, please park with consideration for the local community/residents and businesses. Traffic congestion is likely at key ingress and egress times due to the expected volume of supporters attending the fixture.

The Boucher Road is also a thriving Commercial area.

Police are reminding all fans that there are specific offences created by the Criminal Justice Act NI 2011 in relation to soccer matches-

· Possession of/ throwing Fireworks/ Flares etc

· Throwing Articles capable of causing injury

· Going on to the Playing area

· Sectarian Chanting

· Drinking on Passenger Carrying Vehicles

In addition all fans are reminded that the areas around the stadium are “No Street Drinking” zones under Belfast City Council By-Laws. Supporters are asked to be respectful and considerate whilst walking through residential streets convenient to the stadium. Any Street drinking taking place will be dealt with robustly by police and any alcohol found subject to seizure. As a condition of entry to the stadium fans will be subject to random searches. Alcohol cannot be brought into the stadium.

Maximum Use of CCTV/ Video Evidence will be utilised as part of the matchday Policing Operation in an effort to deal with any criminal offences/anti-social behaviour which takes place.

Police will take all steps to identify and deal with anyone who has been or is committing offences.

It is hoped that a common sense approach to the event can be taken by all and the occasion enjoyed.

It is vitally important for supporter and community safety that these instructions are complied with.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE RAILWAY BRIDGE GATE IS NOT OPEN FOR TODAY’S FINAL