THE POLICE have defended their tactics after clashes with Saints fans in the Northam Stand at St Mary's on Sunday.

Three arrests were made and two stewards were injured when fighting broke out midway through the first half of the 4-2 win against Fulham.

Punches were clearly thrown, but the situation was brought under control within minutes due to extra police and stewards being brought in.

It was the latest in a series of confrontations this season over the stricter enforcement of the ban on standing at Premiership football grounds.

The authorities have threatened to close the entire Northam Stand unless fans remain seated and, although a hardcore element continues to defy the ban, most supporters are now adhering to the rules.

Some fans believe stewards and the police were heavy-handed, but Chief Superintendent Graham Wyeth backed his officers' handling of the incident.

He said: "We have compliance with about 95 per cent of supporters within the stadium.

"Ground regulations clearly state that remaining seated is a condition of entry.

"I regret that a small minority of individuals are choosing to be particularly pedantic.

"The stewards attempted to tactfully guide them, but were met with abuse and provocation and two were injured.

"When that happens we are not prepared to tolerate it and people will be forcibly removed.

"Those vociferous minority are fully aware of the situation and all but a few people are compliant and appreciate the sensitivity of the situation."

He added: "Ejection and enforcing ground regulations is an issue for stewards, but when there are violence, taunts and intimidation we will move in."

Chief Supt Wyeth confirmed that three arrests were made for public order and assault offences but warned: "We have the whole incident on video and retrospective action could still be taken."

He added: "I would also like to offer my personal thanks to those who behaved and I just hope we can get back to where we were when we had such a great relationship with Saints fans.

"It was a shame as looking around the rest of the ground people were enjoying themselves and it was a great result.

"People have nothing to fear from the police or stewards if they just adhere to the ground regulations."