Rumours that there would be an armed attack between town and country gangs during Sunday's football matches at Southampton Oval almost caused the Bermuda Football Association to postpone the games.

But the BFA and Bermuda Police Service have decided to stand united and not allow violence prevent the Island from enjoying one of it's national sports.

Police have said they will be out in full force and members of the public will be searched for weapons before entering the field.

Superintendent Mike Jackman said the BFA and PPS have been meeting this week after they received information that there might be retaliation attacks at the games in the wake of the Christmas shootings.

"We have concerns that there may be a retaliation attack between town and country supporters," he said. "That has also been the word on the street."

In the early hours of Christmas Day when Jakai Harford, 24, was shot in the shoulder in the Camp Hill area of Southampton. Around 9 p.m. on Boxing Day Aquil Richardson, 30, was murdered and Levar Smith, 25, shot in the legs — again in Camp Hill.

Few details about the shootings have been made public by the Police. They have made several arrests but are yet to charge anyone.

And BFA official David Subair said: "We will not tolerate anti social behaviour in football.

"Any person who found doing anti social behaviour will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

"Any player or official involved in anti social behaviour will be stiffly fined as well as being dealt with by the law.

"There will be zero tolerance to usurp existing security and gain entry from areas other than the main entrances."

There will be two matches at the Southampton Oval on Sunday and Police will be at both. Premier Division leaders PHC Zebras will play against Boulevard Blazers followed by First Division team X Roads who will play against the Southampton Rangers.