POLICE bosses have submitted a report to the Home Office about the actions of officers during the controversial cup semi-final clash between Blackburn Rovers and Sheffield Wednesday.

The move has come after Home Secretary and Sheffield MP David Blunkett called for a report into police tactics and claims that excessive force was used during last week's game at Ewood Park.

Sheffield Wednesday fans have lodged complaints with the police and claim they were beaten as officers in full riot gear marched onto the ground towards the end of the Worthington Cup second-leg match, which Rovers won 4-2.

Police bosses have defended their actions, saying that any force used was justified.

However, they have sent off a full report of the policing of the match to the Home Secretary, as well as making the CCTV footage available.

Chief Insp Neil Smith, of Blackburn Police, who was at the match and has watched the CCTV footage of the crowd, said: "The Home Secretary has asked us for a report into the match and we have complied fully with that request. The CCTV footage of the match, including the crowd trouble and our use of officers in protective clothing, will be made available if it is requested."

Mr Smith said the behaviour of a section of Sheffield Wednesday supporters had been 'appalling' with some fans surging forward trying to invade the pitch. Others had thrown coins and broken plastic seating to use as missiles. Twelve fans were arrested.

He added: "It was the worst example of disorder we have had at Ewood Park this season. The reason we have to resort to these tactics is because of the behaviour of some supporters.

"Officers are entitled to use their batons for protection and for the purpose of protecting the public."

He denied some fans' claims that officers on police horses had hit supporters with batons as they made their way back to the coaches and added: "I did not see any disorder outside the ground." He said: "There was a very small minority of about 30 people causing trouble among 5,200 Sheffield supporters."

One fan, who was at the game, which Rovers won 4-2 to secure a place in next month's final, contacted the Lancashire Evening Telegraph to complain about the treatment.

Mark Charlton, who has followed his team for 10 years, watching them home and away.

He said: "I think the police's presence was way over the top."

Club bosses at Sheffield Wednesday have launched their own investigation into the incident.

A statement issued by the Hillsborough club read: "The club has asked Blackburn Rovers for its comments on the matter."

A spokesman for Blackburn Rovers said the club did not want to comment on what was a police matter.