Football Victoria is investigating an incident of fan violence that led to the abandonment of an NPL match between Oakleigh Cannons and Dandenong Thunder last Friday night.
The match was called off early in the second half when initial attempts to contain rival fans failed. Spectators spilled out onto the pitch at Jack Edwards Reserve in Oakleigh, and at least one fan was knocked unconscious in the mayhem. Security lost control of spot fires and police were called in to diffuse the situation. Around 500 spectators attended the match, some of whom were throwing items at the police and others in the area.
Oakleigh were up 2-0 at the time, but the match will be replayed in full, and that score will not count. A time for the match replay has not yet been scheduled, but it will be closed to fans.
Tensions rose when travelling Thunder fans were angered by a celebration from Oakleigh striker Stef Valentini in the 42nd minute, causing the game to be paused. Referees attempted to restart the match after a half-time break, but they abandoned it when fans began to invade the pitch.
Football Victoria issued a statement acknowledging a serious incident that occurred during the Round 5 fixture between Oakleigh Cannons FC and Dandenong Thunder FC.
“Football Victoria condemns all forms of anti-social behaviour and violence, in accordance with FV’s rules of competition and spectator code of behaviour. Both clubs have been contacted by the governing body, who join Football Victoria in condemning the behaviour and will fully cooperate with the investigation. Football Victoria is engaging with all relevant stakeholders to collect details on the incident. Further details on sanctions will be revealed in due course.”
Victoria Police reported that three people were injured in an incident that is currently under investigation. Although no police report has been made at this stage, the circumstances surrounding the incident are being looked into.
