Police were on hand to quell a shoving match between players and fans at yesterday's Martonmere Cup final.

Trouble flared between two players late into the game at Wellington Oval and then other players and fans ran to join in before around seven Police officers went on the field to restore order.

Police spokesman Dwayne Caines said it wasn't unusual for Police to be on hand at sporting events but numbers have been increased recently.

The violence follows an incident at Devonshire Rec late last month when fans ran on the field brandishing weapons including a machete, a Samurai sword, hammers and knives during the Martonmere cup semi-final clash between Devonshire Colts and Devonshire Cougars.

Mr. Caines said last night: "Based on what we have seen in the past Police have stepped up their presence at football games.

"We are working with sporting bodies to ensure the safety of all. We are happy the situation didn't escalate further."

Full report, See Sport Page 32