'Clear involvement' from Victory fans in NPL brawl

Michael Huguenin

'Clear involvement' from Victory fans in NPL brawl image

Melbourne Victory have confirmed active supporters associated with their club were involved in a brawl at an NPL Victoria match last month.

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On April 24, a group of Victory fans jumped the fence at Lakeside Stadium to run across the venue just behind the goal at the city end and attacked South Melbourne supporters.

Last month, South Melbourne claimed they had proof those at fault were Victory fans and in a statement released on Wednesday, the A-League club confirmed their investigation indicates "clear involvement from people in an active area association with Melbourne Victory".

The statement declared Victory are "incredibly disappointed with the findings" and reaffirmed their commitment to assisting Football Federation Victoria's ongoing investigation.

"We want to assure our members, fans and the greater Australian football community that we will work tirelessly to remove the people involved from our club and football in general," the statement continued.

"These people have no place in our game. They are not welcome in any way, shape or form.

"Given the South Melbourne incident, we will make further changes to our security measures for the remainder of the NPL Victoria season, both at home and away, to deliver the best possible match day experience for all.

"As a result of this issue, as well as supporter incidents that led to a $50,000 fine and suspended three-point A-League deduction in February, our club is undertaking a comprehensive review of active areas, specific to structure and standards, for next season and beyond."

Victory were punished by Football Federation Australia in February after flares were lit before and during a derby against Melbourne City.

 

 

Michael Huguenin