SIDE by side. It is a sight that is not often seen on the south coast as rival Saints and Pompey fans stood united in the name of charity.

Soccer teams from TML Financial Solutions in Parkway, Whiteley, today took part in the fundraiser just hours before Portsmouth and Southampton football clubs were due to go head to head in the FA Cup fourth round tomorrow.

Staff at the company, situated midway between the two rival cities, decided to hold the match to raise money for the tsunami relief fund.

Congratulating each other after the game will be a far cry from the scenes expected at tomorrow's FA Cup clash where 440 police officers will be on the streets of Southampton in a bid to keep rival fans apart.

Officers will be meeting fans from the city's train station and escorting them on foot to the ground, supported by dog handlers and mounted police which have been drafted in from other forces.

Intelligence officers and tactical cycle units will also be involved in the operation to keep the peace between Saints fans and about 4,000 Pompey fans who are expected to make the trip along the M27.

Southampton's top police officer Chief Superintendent Paul Stickler, pictured above, says as well as keeping the peace between rival fans the operation will be about ensuring the least amount of disruption is caused to local residents.

He said: "Southampton playing Portsmouth is always a very special match - and this has certainly added extra spice to this competition.

"As always, a sign of a successful day for us will be very few or no arrests, and my officers are committed to doing everything they can to ensure the match is a peaceful occasion for everybody.

"We will rigorously pursue, arrest and prosecute anyone who comes here intent on causing trouble."

Pubs in the area have also been advised not to open before or immediately after the match that kicks off at 12.30pm.

Bars at the ground, apart from the hospitality boxes, will also be closed before the match and will only open to serve drinks at half-time.

Motorists are being warned to expect congestion around the ground before and after the match between 2.15pm and 3.30pm as Northam Road and Britannia Road will be closed.