Police have warned there will be no hiding place for fans hell-bent on causing trouble at the Pittodrie showdown between Aberdeen and Rangers.
More than 20,000 supporters are expected to head to the Dons’ home for the first Scottish Premiership clash between the clubs since 2012.
Extra patrols, dog handlers and officers on horses will all be in the police line-up for one of the biggest security operations ever mounted in and around the stadium.
North-east divisional commander Chief Superintendent Campbell Thomson said last night he was “confident” the vast majority of fans would be there simply to enjoy the game.
But he said officers would deal “firmly and robustly” with any troublemakers.
The fixture has historically been bad-tempered – both on and off the pitch.
In 2000, Rangers player Fernando Ricksen was red-carded after aiming a kung-fu style kick at Dons midfielder Darren Young.
Two-years-later, both sets of players had to be escorted from the Pittodrie pitch after Reds star Robbie Winters was hit by a coin thrown from the stands.
The following season, Ricksen was at the centre of another controversy when a fan tried to attack the Dutchman during a game at the ground.
And following the last match between the sides in Glasgow, riot police had to be called after both sets of fans clashed before kick-off close to Ibrox Stadium.
Ch Supt Thomson said: “The vast majority will be there to simply enjoy the game in a safe environment, and we’re proud to have an excellent history of partnership working with Aberdeen FC, with the aim of ensuring that the match day experience is safe for everyone.
“We will very much join in with the spirit of the event but let it be clear that we will deal firmly and robustly with the very small minority who may choose to let themselves and their clubs down.
“My warning is clear – any form of antisocial behaviour, whether it involves sectarianism, violence or disorder is completely unnecessary, completely unwanted and will not be tolerated.”
Fans will be monitored closely as they enter the stadium, police will be looking for anyone carrying flares or fireworks, and anyone who refuses to allow themselves to be searched will be turned away.
Ch Supt Thomson said: “If you are intent on causing trouble whether it be within the stadium, in your city or town, your local pub, your home or even online, you will be caught.
“Don’t think because you haven’t been caught at the time you’ve got away with it – retrospective inquiries will also be carried out to identify those responsible for any crimes committed.”
Aberdeen City and Shire Hoteliers Association said its members were prepared for the influx of fans.
Andrew Martin, vice-chairman, said: “We welcome sporting fans to the city and from around the country, both Aberdeen and Rangers fans.
“On the other hand we are aware that there is a minority who will try and cause trouble, but it’s a very small group.
“It would be wrong to tar all football fans with the same brush and we have a network in place to notify each other should someone be refused a room or asked to leave premises.”
British Transport Police will also have an increased presence in and around the rail station.
A spokeswoman said: “We take a pro-active approach to football policing, with officers escorting trains before and after matches, and patrolling stations where large numbers of fans are expected.
“The vast majority of football fans who use the railways do so without causing any problems and we work closely with Police Scotland to ensure everyone can have a safe and pleasant journey.”
A spokesman for Aberdeen Football Club added: “People will obviously be excited as they are passionate about football and it is up to us to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the matchday experience.
“We are sure they will and we look forward to Rangers return to Pittodrie, and anticipate a great day.”
Sunday’s game kicks off at 1pm.
