Security chiefs restrict access to Roma-Napoli clash

ROME, Oct 17 (Reuters) Officials in the Italian capital have decided to restrict Saturday's Serie A game between AS Roma and Napoli to season-ticket holders because of the risk of clashes between rival fans.

Rome Prefect Carlo Mosca announced the decision today following a meeting with local security chiefs.

Napoli supporters were banned from travelling to see their side play champions Inter Milan at the San Siro 11 days ago, a match which was also considered high-risk.

But around 1,000 of them managed to buy tickets and make a mockery of the measure, prompting authorities to be even stricter this time.

Italy is seeking to clamp down on soccer violence after the death of a police officer during rioting at a top-flight game in Catania in February.

Serie A derby matches in Turin and Genoa were also marred by clashes before kick-off last month. Roma have around 27,000 season-ticket holders.

REUTERS BJR HS1809