Praise for Manchester derby fans

United won the match 3-1 to progress to the final against Aston Villa

Police have praised supporters for their generally good behaviour at the Manchester derby.

Extra officers were at Old Trafford for the match after trouble flared between United and City fans at last week's Carling Cup semi-final first leg.

During Wednesday's match, watched by about 70,000, a bottle and coin were thrown at City player Craig Bellamy.

A 26-year-old, held in connection with the incident, was one of 11 people arrested on the night.

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: "The vast majority of fans have taken on board our messages ahead of the game, making sure it has been a safe evening and one that can be remembered for the football.

"The low number of arrests on the night is testament to the excellent work of all those involved."

CCTV appeal

Fans clashed at the City of Manchester Stadium last week, when City beat United 2-1.

There have been 29 arrests in connection with suspected violent disorder offences at that fixture

Eleven of those were made on Tuesday and Wednesday after a CCTV image appeal by the force.

Manchester United won the game 3-1 (4-3 on aggregate) to progress to the final against Aston Villa at Wembley.

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