A minor fight and major traffic delays marred an otherwise enjoyable two-day Cup Match.

Police made several arrests at the conclusion of yesterday's match after a fight broke out on the bar and upper veranda of St. George's Cricket Club around 8 p.m.

Officers would not comment on the incident other than to describe it as "a minor altercation". No injuries were reported.

However during yesterday's cup presentation, Acting Premier Paula Cox urged the public not to "let the incidental overshadow what's been magnificent out here".

The Royal Gazette understands hundreds of motorists were held up by Police checkpoints as they attempted to leave the game.

Traffic was slowed to a crawl at the Swing Bridge and opposite Grotto Bay Resort, as officers searched vehicles as part of a safety crackdown promised in a press conference earlier in the week, with bumper-to-bumper traffic to Wellington Oval.

A Police spokesperson said that A police spokesman said that the traffic stops were unrelated to the fight.

Prior to the fight, much of the holiday had passed without incident.

Earlier yesterday, hundreds stood in lines eagerly waiting to enter the event. Inside, excited spectators at Wellington Oval drank in the atmosphere as St. George's defended the cup against challengers Somerset.

"I'm surprised so many people are out in all this heat," said Molly Trott from Warwick, who waited in line almost 15 minutes to get in yesterday. "It was worth it. It seems like the entire Island is here."

Said Matthew Greenslade of Smiths: "I was here all day yesterday, and I forgot all about the Crown and Anchor."

Throughout the two days of play, the stands surrounding the pitch were filled with spectators supporting their favourite teams.

While the game was the centrepiece of the day's events, many came to St. George's just to enjoy the party atmosphere. Some flew into the Island specifically to attend the event.

"This is one of the biggest parties I've been to in years," said Michael Murdoch from Palatka, Florida. "I came down here for this."

Mr. Murdoch said that he did spend some time watching the game, but he preferred playing Crown and Anchor.

"I watched for a couple of minutes, but I had no idea what was going on," he said.

Alix Liiv came to Bermuda from New York to experience her third Cup Match.

"It's hotter then ever, but it seems to be a little less crowded, but I love Cup Match, and I love [tomorrow's] non-mariners [race]. Everyone's so festive," said Ms Liiv.

At the end of two days of play, St. George's held onto the cup after the game ended in an exciting draw.

With the temperature high throughout the day, shaded areas around the bleachers were popular spots to avoid the heat. Also popular were the event's many concession stands with lines outside some stalls, like Sid's Seafood, remaining all day.

"They didn't run out of shark hash this year. I guess they came prepared," said Johnathan Talbot of St. George's.