UP to 1,500 Blackburn Rovers fans could be in Lyon for tonight's big UEFA Cup clash -- but the reputation of English football supporters preceded them as they travelled to France.

Monday night in the country's second largest city was much like a Monday night in Blackburn itself -- it rained heavily. A lot of people on the quiet streets were wearing blue and white scarfs.

There was the occasional hotspot such as the Albion pub or the token Irish bar.

And there was a strong police presence, the scary French CRS riot squad out in numbers in the charming Bellecour district. Yet Rovers fans, attempting to pack in their celebrations before tonight's game, were still -- almost inevitably -- touched by the long arm of the law.

It was, however, on the English side of the Channel.

Those 150 supporters travelling by coach had made good time to Dover and arrived early for the 6am ferry, instead of the scheduled 8am sailing. But the fans were rudely awakened, their luggage searched and the crossing delayed. Even the media and VIP coaches had a police escort from the airport.

Blackburn police estimates suggest that as many as 1,500 fans, and possibly even more, will be in Lyon tonight for the televised UEFA Cup second leg.

Fans have flown to Frankfurt, Geneva, St Etienne and Lyon itself, and from almost every airport in England, under their own steam.

For many Blackburn fans Lyon has provided the first affordable opportunity to follow their side in Europe.

The serious bargain-hunter has even been able to take advantage of a £24 special offer from Stanstead.

The exact number is impossible to gage, one of the over-riding problems for those charged with organising official packages.

Meanwhile strikers Martin Dahlin and Kevin Gallacher were on standby to fly out to Lyon this afternoon -- if they passed late fitness tests. Rovers are already without Chris Sutton and Kevin Davies.

See also: 'Rovers fans lead way for peaceful Euro trip'

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