In September 2002 trouble flared between Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday fans at the Sportsman pub.

The six claim their sentences, ranging from 18 months to 24 months, were too severe.

However, a 21-year-old who had been involved in the clashes had his sentence cut from 18 to 12 months.

Hand-to-hand fighting

The Appeal Court in London heard violence broke out at 2000 BST on 1 September 2002, and fans threw chairs, bottles and other items at police officers.

Some were involved in "hand-to-hand" fighting with the police.

Mr Justice Curtis, who heard the appeals with Mr Justice Astill, said there was no merit in their claims.

The judge said it was up to the sentencing judge to decide the level of involvement of each of the men, and what credit those who pleaded guilty should receive.

He also observed that the seven "were fortunate" their sentences were no higher than they were, as the maximum jail term for violent disorder is five years.