Cherries keen to expand stadium

Cherries keen to expand stadium

Published Apr. 23, 2013 3:15 p.m. ET

Barnsley fans have been asked by South Yorkshire Police not to run on to the pitch at the end of their final home game of the season.

The Tykes can haul themselves out of the bottom three with victory at Oakwell over Hull City, who will secure automatic promotion to the Premier League if they win.

A South Yorkshire Police statement read: "We understand the passion involved in football especially at such a crucial time and therefore everyone is working hard to ensure the match runs smoothly in and around the ground.

"Due to the significance of this match for both teams, an increase in the number of police officers present around Barnsley town centre will be apparent on Saturday in order to ensure the match passes with minimal disorder."

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Temporary superintendent Scott Green, police commander for Saturday's match, added: "We appreciate the passion involved in supporting a football club and welcome friendly rivalry, especially in the last home game of the season.

"Unlike previous years, I'm asking the Barnsley fans to remain in the stands and not go on the pitch after the final whistle.

"We understand that this has become a tradition in previous years. However, Barnsley players will not be coming back out unless the pitch is clear.

"Anyone entering the pitch may be arrested and South Yorkshire Police may additionally seek a football banning order. So please don't spoil it for yourselves and others."

The Cherries sealed promotion to the second tier on Saturday with a 3-1 victory over Carlisle in front of 9004 and Mitchell revealed they plan to build a fourth stand in time for the big kick-off in August.

"I would like to think there is every chance to get it ready for the start of the season. We just want to get it done," Mitchell told BBC South Today.

"Our main aim is to get another 3-4000 in the stadium. We've got to do our bit and get that capacity up.

"We want to replicate the North Stand. To take it on further we will need different planning permissions, which takes time."

Bournemouth could clinch the title with victory at Tranmere this weekend before thoughts turn to life in the Championship.

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