The Ipswich Town Independent Supporters Trust has called on Norfolk police to show "common sense" and allow Blues supporters use of a pub in Norwich ahead of Saturday’s Championship play-off semi-final second leg at Carrow Road.
Earlier this week, Norfolk police said in a statement that no pubs had agreed to accept travelling fans: "Norfolk Constabulary has been working closely with licensees in Norwich to identify a suitable venue for away supporters; however they have all self-declared themselves as home only.”
However, in a statement the Trust says they are aware of pubs in Norwich who were keen to open for Town supporters: "Members of the Supporters Trust have been contacted by a number of Ipswich fans who have raised their concerns that the Norfolk police have systematically ensure that all drinking facilities are either declared ‘home pubs only’ or not permitted to serve Ipswich fans prior to 11.30am.
"The Trust believes that it is a better and safer strategy to have away fans in designated locations, as proved by the Suffolk police last Saturday, with two away fans’ pubs, rather than having Ipswich fans walking around trying to find a pre-match drink, leading up to what has be quoted as the most important Ipswich v Norwich derby match to date.
"This is further compounded when the Trust is told that there are some locations that want to welcome Ipswich fans, with one such facility having Ipswich fans booking accommodation the night before, to be told this week they can not serve Ipswich supporters.
"Therefore, the Trust calls on the Norfolk Police to use common sense and allow one or two facilities available for Ipswich supporters prior to the game."