The game, set for Saturday, April 18, will see officers deploy two dispersal orders and a range of tactics to keep fans and the wider community safe.
Section 35 dispersal orders will be in effect from 8am to 8pm, giving police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) the authority to disperse individuals and groups from specific areas if police think they are causing or likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.
There will be two different dispersal order zones covering the area around the Select Car Leasing Stadium and much of Reading town centre.
The area that will be covered by the dispersal order around the football stadium (Image: TVP)
The area that will be covered by the dispersal order in Reading town centre (Image: TVP)
Officers will also make use of a host of other tactics including football spotters, mounted officers, tactical cyclists, police dogs, and drones.
Chief Inspector Dave Washington, tactical commander for the Reading FC match, said: “We want fans to enjoy the match, support their team and return home safely, but antisocial behaviour and disorder will not be tolerated.
“While the vast majority of supporters behave responsibly, we will take firm action against anyone intent on causing disorder, including arrests and football banning orders.”
Chief Inspector Washington encouraged fans to engage with the policing team.
He said: “If you are coming to the match, please say hello to our officers and speak to police, staff or stewards on the day if you have any concerns.
“We will continue to work with both football clubs, our partners and local communities to ensure a safe operation and prevent those who pose a risk of antisocial behaviour from impacting on others.”
The football stadium dispersal order will cover the area between the A33, Longwater Drive, Flagstaff Road, Green Park Railway Station, and South Oak Way.
The town centre dispersal order will cover the area between Caversham Road, Richfield Avenue, Cow Lane, Beresford Road, Western Elms Avenue, Tilehurst Road, Bath Road, Southampton Street, London Road, Watlington Street, Forbury Road, and Western Road, including Reading railway station.