Police cope with Lions fans, but nightspots struggle

While police were impressed by fans' behaviour last night in Hamilton, nightclubs may have been overwhelmed.

Police said they were surprised at the good behaviour in Hamilton last night, with four times the usual number of people in town after the Lions versus New Zealand Maori match attracted more than 30,000 people to the city.

Senior Sergeant Pete Simpson said police were very happy with crowd behaviour, and they made only the normal number of arrests for a Saturday night. No overseas supporters were arrested.

However, there is some suggestion that Hamilton's nightclubs and pubs couldn't cope with the thousands wanting to party after the match.

Fraser Tech Rugby club hosted 1500 fans, and when their liquor licence ended at midnight the crowds headed to town.

But club manager Greg Smith says city pubs could not find room for them. He says this killed the spirit and people wandered the streets with nothing to do.

The Maori beat the Lions 19-13.

- NEWSTALK ZB