Jones urges Luton fans not to let bitter rivalry with Watford boil over on the day

Luton boss Nathan Jones has urged supporters not to get their fierce and bitter rivalry with Watford boil over into anything unsavoury when the two sides go head to head this Sunday.

Before the game, which is the first to be played in front of supporters at Vicarage Road since 2006, the Hornets have taken the step to board up their Graham Taylor statue outside the ground once more.

They did the same when Town last visited back in 2020 even though supporters weren’t allowed to the game due to Covid regulation, while fencing has been put up to protect the stadium, with the club shop staying closed and a number of pubs stating they won‘t be opening on the day either.

Hertfordshire Police have also stated any kind of disorder or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and when asked if he had a message for supporters heading to the match, Jones said: “Enjoy the day.

"I hope that it’s a real fiercely contested derby, with athleticism, aggression and all the right things you want to see on a football pitch.

“Then, hopefully, everyone has a safe journey there and back, and can enjoy the day, because that’s what football’s about.

“It’s a big rivalry, but hopefully it doesn’t boil over into anything.

"I want them to enjoy the day and let’s show what a real wonderful club that we really are.”

Watford and Hertfordshire Police have also released a statement before the clash confirming they will do their best to keep fans apart after the 90 minutes has been completed.

It read: “Hertfordshire Police's aim is always to support the club in creating a safe environment for fans of all ages to attend Vicarage Road Stadium and enjoy a game of football.

“As with many local derby games around the country, passion often runs high - which can, on occasion, cause points of conflict.

"Although the majority of supporters attending are genuine, well-behaved football fans, there are a minority who maybe intent on acting in an anti-social manner.

“At the game on Sunday you are likely to see a significant policing presence, more than is usually seen at matches at Vicarage Road; this is due to the derby nature of the fixture and the main aim of promoting public safety.

“At the end of the fixture measures will be put in place to ensure both sets of fans are able to leave the stadium in a more structured manner along allocated routes.

“Home supporters will asked to leave the stadium via one of two routes, whilst Luton Town fans will be asked to use a different, third route.

"The aim is to separate the two sets of fans, thus avoiding any potential conflict in promoting public safety.

“We would like to express in advance our thanks for your anticipated co-operation.

"We do appreciate there will be some inconvenience and will attempt to keep this to a minimum.”