POLICE today appealed to Ipswich Town and Cardiff City fans to behave as it was revealed Portman Road will be closed after the March game.The match takes place on Saturday, March 8 and police have asked fans to act “respectfully and responsibly”.

POLICE today appealed to Ipswich Town and Cardiff City fans to behave as it was revealed Portman Road will be closed after the March game.

The match takes place on Saturday, March 8 and police have asked fans to act “respectfully and responsibly”.

Portman Road will be closed to home fans and the public for a short time after the game to allow away fans to be escorted to their transport.

More than 100 officers from Suffolk police and British Transport Police will be involved in the operation.

Police said there may be some minor delays and movement may be restricted in the area around the ground but both sets of fans are asked to be flexible as officers try to ensure everyone's safety.

Det Sup Chris Mayhew said: “This will be an exciting game for both teams. We hope that people celebrate the match sensibly and in the right spirit.

“We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour, violence, racial chanting, mindless vandalism or any alcohol fuelled disorder.

“We will continue our use of firm but fair policing to ensure the safety of those attending the game and those members of the public wishing to go about their normal business.”

The stadium's turnstiles and bars will be open from 1.30pm and kick off is at 3pm.

The public is asked to be prepared for crowd and traffic congestion and disruption on the day and to avoid the town if not attending the game.

People are advised to share cars and use public transport where possible.

Police said Ipswich and Cardiff fans have a good reputation across the country and it is hoped they live up to this on match day.

n. Are Town fans well-behaved? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk