POLICE are in talks with Huddersfield Town and Hull City to end a row over ticket and travel restrictions for the Sky TV clash between the two clubs next month.
West Yorkshire Police, faced with a legal challenge, seem about to offer a compromise to furious Tigers fans.
The force initially refused permission for Sky to screen the John Smith’s Stadium fixture on March 30, insisting on a 12.30pm kick-off.
But Town faced a points deduction if they didn’t get the game on TV and police backed down.
Senior officers agreed to the 5.20pm kick-off but said only 1,500 away fans could attend – and must travel from Hull on official coaches only.
Police fear Hull fans will meet up in town centre pubs hours before kick-off and say the cost of policing would be too high.
Hull fan Louis Cooper, 15, of Manchester, has threatened to seek a judicial review if police don’t lift the restrictions.
Hull City owner Assem Allam has hinted at a compromise and said there could be a decision “in our favour.”
West Yorkshire Police’s assistant chief constable Craig Guildford said: “We are in negotiations and are speaking to both football clubs to address the issues that have been raised regarding some fans travelling to the Huddersfield Town v Hull City match.
“Discussions will be taking place this week involving the Police and Crime Commissioner (Mark Burns-Williamson) and we will update the public when a decision is reached.
“West Yorkshire Police will continue to play a role together with both clubs in reducing the risks associated with this fixture.”
Politicians have weighed into the row including former Deputy Prime Minister and former Hull East MP Lord Prescott who accused West Yorkshire Police of “slurring” all Hull fans.
He said it was unfair that Hull fans should pay the price and added: “West Yorkshire Police are rubbishing our reputation and treating us like common criminals because they claim they can’t afford to police a Saturday night.”
