Football fans from Ipswich and Norwich have been thanked by police for showing “good spirit” during the East Anglian derby.

Suffolk Constabulary co-ordinated a “significant” operation around Portman Road for the play-offs, which the force deemed a success, despite a number of arrests.

Five people were arrested in the lead-up, during and after yesterday’s game, when around 2,000 Norwich City supporters travelled to the town to watch the game, which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Police officers from Suffolk, Norfolk and the British Transport Police said they promoted an “ethos of firm, friendly policing, with the aim of helping all supporters to enjoy the match”.

A 28-year-old man from Norwich was arrested on suspicion of a football offence (throwing a missile onto the pitch)

A 54-year-old man from Ipswich was arrested in connection with a Section 5 Public Order Act offence.

A 17-year-old boy from Cromer was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence.

A 23-year-old man from Ipswich was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence.

A 29-year-old man from Ipswich was arrested in connection with a Section 5 Public Order Act offence.

All five are currently being questioned at Martlesham Police Investigation Centre.

Road closures and cordons were put in place around the stadium to ensure fans could move safely from the ground and begin their journeys home.

Ipswich policing commander, Superintendent Louisa Pepper said: “I am very pleased to say that overall, the atmosphere at today’s match was lively but good natured, with minimal need for police intervention.

“Extensive planning went into the policing operation, which was firm in places, with a significant presence of officers.

“This was necessary to ensure supporters enjoyed the game and to cause the minimum impact possible on other members of the public in the area.

“I am very pleased to say that the operation was carried out exactly as planned with supporters enjoying a fantastic atmosphere.

“A very small number of people behaved unacceptably and were dealt with accordingly. This behaviour is not tolerated and swift action was taken to lessen the impact on individuals and families attending the game.”

Police have also thanked counterparts in Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, City of London and British Transport Police for their assistance as well as other partner agencies involved in the operation.