Oxford is gritting its teeth for potential problems as December 8's FA Cup second-round tie between the Oxford United and Swindon Town looms.

With extra security laid on to counter the possibility of crowd clashes before, during and after the local derby, people living near the stadium seemed assured by safety measures taken by Thames Valley Police and staff at the Kassam Stadium.

The police have asked the club to ensure that no alcohol will be on sale in the North Stand, to either Oxford or Swindon fans, although drink will be available to home supporters in both the South Stand and the Oxford Mail Stand. Fifty extra stewards are being drafted in for the televised game -- the first time the two sides have met in the FA Cup.

Netting is being put up above the dividing doors in the North Stand to prevent a repetition of the incident at the recent Worthington Cup third-round tie against Aston Villa when a bottle was thrown from one group of fans to another, sparking trouble.

Officials and police have reviewed security following a pitch invasion by about 25 Lincoln City fans at the Division Three match at the Kassam Stadium on November 30.

Pc Bob Maulini, of the British Transport Police, based at Reading, said extra officers were being drafted in to mount guards both inside and outside Oxford railway station. "Normally, we would expect Swindon fans to use the train, but I believe there are some repairs being carried out over the weekend, so some may well come by road," he said.

Bob Cochrane, the relief manager of The Priory pub close to the ground, said they would open their doors at noon on Sunday as normal.

He said: "The football club is supplying stewards to be on duty both outside and inside the premises and we will be keeping a close eye on the situation. We will also be serving drinks in plastic glasses as an extra precaution.

"Obviously, there will be a strong police presence in the area to try to alleviate any problems that may arise."

Former Oxford Lord Mayor Val Smith, Labour councillor for Blackbird Leys, agreed there was concern in the area about the match.

"Obviously, people have expressed concern and we as local councillors have passed these on to the club and police," she said.

"We have to hope that people's fears are not realised and that the match goes off OK. The police have obviously taken it seriously, but it's still a case of 'fingers crossed.'

"People are naturally concerned about parking and that there may be some trouble but they are confident that the police are aware of the potential problem and are not going to ignore it."

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