EXTRA police were drafted into Bolton on Wednesday as security was increased for Wanderers' clash with Manchester United which the champions won 2-1.

More than 400 officers were deployed across the whole Bolton division, particularly at flashpoints including the Reebok Stadium, the town centre and local train stations.

But there were just a handful of arrests. Six people were arrested for a variety of public order offences before the game and a further five people were ejected from the Reebok Stadium during the game watched by a crowd of 27,668

In addition to mounted police, motorcyclists and special constables, undercover officers mingled with crowds.

Mobile video teams were used in key areas to discourage trouble and improve the chances of identifying ringleaders.

Match commander Chief Supt Dave Lea said during the night his officers monitored the activities of several known offenders.

But he said: "There was very little trouble at all. We had sufficient resources to intervene in any situations which looked like getting out of hand and we're pleased to say it was a very safe match with no-one hurt.

"There were six arrests for public order offences and a further five people ejected from the ground. They will be brought before magistrates as soon as possible and we will apply for banning orders to make sure they cannot visit any football grounds again."

Chief Supt Lea said a team of plain-clothes "spotters" was used to root out known hooligans who were turned away from the vicinity of the ground.

He added: "The air support unit and a team of spotters allowed us to respond very quickly to the presence of people we believed were there to cause trouble.

"I'm pleased with the way the operation turned out. The spirit of the game was terrific but, unfortunately there will always be an element who are hell-bent on spoiling it for others."

Goals from Paul Scholes and Ruud van Nistelrooy for United were answered by a late own goal from Gary Neville which set up a grandstand finish.