Hansa vs. St. Pauli: An explosive match for the police
The match between Hansa Rostock and FC St. Pauli is one of the most explosive duels in the 2nd Bundesliga. The two fan camps have been almost hostile to each other for years. Violent clashes occur on a regular basis. The police are also on high alert before, during and after the high-risk match on Saturday (13:00/Sky).
Forces from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and Hamburg as well as from the federal police will be on duty. The exact number of police officers has not been announced. One of the most important tasks is the strict separation of the rival fan camps.
Hansa coach Alois Schwartz and his St. Pauli colleague Fabian Hürzeler are trying to concentrate fully on the sport. His team cannot influence what happens in the stands, said Hürzeler. Schwartz said: "It would be nice if we had a soccer festival here that was decided on the pitch in sporting terms."
The visitors from Hamburg are the favorites. The league leaders are still unbeaten this year. Rostock overcame their slump for the time being with the 0-0 draw in their last home game against Hertha BSC and the 2-1 win at 1. FC Magdeburg two weeks ago and increased the gap to the direct relegation places.
Source: www.dpa.com
