FOOTBALL-mad Geordies and Mackems are being warned to behave as the clock counts down to the 142nd Tyne-Wear derby tomorrow lunchtime.

Newcastle United host Sunderland at St James’ Park in a 1.30pm kick-off, with fans of both sides desperate to pick up three much-needed Premier League points and secure local bragging rights.

But police are warning supporters of the risks they run if they let the atmosphere get the better of them and break the law.

Violence has flared in the past, and Chief Superintendent Graham Smith, of Northumbria Police, warned of firm action against troublemakers.

He said: “Those attending football matches to cause trouble are attending for the wrong reasons.

“True fans, whose first priority is the game itself, should continue to work with us to make football a safe event for all concerned.

“People who come to the game tomorrow intent on causing trouble shouldn’t bother, because we will take firm action against them.

“They should stay away and let the real football fans enjoy their day out.

“I am confident that our plans will enable fans to enjoy the match.”

Stephen Savage, from Newcastle City Council, said: “Planning for the game has been extremely thorough in order that both sets of supporters are able to have a safe derby match.”

Police and Metro operator Nexus are advising fans to allow extra travelling time to avoid missing the kick-off.

Metro services between Tynemouth and Wallsend will be suspended until noon and replaced by the number 900 bus service.

Special buses have been laid on from the Stadium of Light for travelling Sunderland fans.

The last Tyne-Wear derby, in February 2009, ended 1-1.

However, despite the Black Cats currently sitting two places and one point ahead in the table, bookmaker William Hill makes the Magpies slight favourites to win, at 5/4. Sunderland are 11/5, with a draw 11/5.

Meanwhile, rival fans at npower, in Rainton Bridge, near Sunderland, put aside their differences yesterday to back England’s bid to host the 2018 World Cup.

World governing body Fifa will announce the host on Thursday, December 2. People can back the bid at engand2018bid.com