Increased security measures for a football match between Limassol teams Ael and Apollon were announced by the police on Sunday.

Police press officer Marina Christodoulidou said they will implement a series of measures both inside and outside the stadium, and in neighbouring areas where necessary.

She said Spyros Kyprianou Avenue will remain closed to traffic from 5-10pm and there will be a strong police presence in the wider area.

She called on the fans of the two teams to show sportsmanship and respect, for the smooth conduct of the match and the safety of all those present.

On Saturday a meeting was held between the boards of the fan clubs of both teams and the deputy chief of police.

All three called for both sides to tone down the rhetoric and for incidents like those seen last week to be a thing of the past.

Late on Thursday night a group of Ael supporters appeared outside the Apollon club building, throwing fireworks and improvised incendiary devices, including Molotov cocktails.

A fight broke out with people at the scene. The suspects fled when police arrived, setting a rubbish bin on fire and damaging parked vehicles.

On Saturday morning police arrested a 21-year-old in connection with the incident. Later in the day a 19-year-old was also arrested.

A police search of a clubhouse the previous day had found wooden poles, to one of which a skewer had been attached.

On Friday, the Cyprus Football Association appeared to blame the police for the clashes, saying the force had changed its initial recommendations by suggesting that the match between AEL and Apollon be held with fewer spectators or even behind closed doors.

The teams are set to play each other later on Sunday at the Alphamega stadium. Only those with a pre=bought ticket will be allowed in to the match as ticket offices on Sunday will not open.