FFA has maintained consistency in its zero tolerance policy on anti-social behaviour, handing Melbourne Victory with a $50,000 fine and suspended three-point deduction after adjudging their fans brought the game into to disrepute.
At the 28th minute in last Saturday’s Melbourne Derby, Victory fans let off a flare in celebration of Fahid Ben Khalfallah’s goal.
At 55 minutes, Victory fans also reacted badly to a goal which was not allowed, throwing bottles onto the field and towards City goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.
There were also reports of alleged flares lit outside AAMI Park, objects thrown at Victoria Police as well as altercations with police.
FFA have begun clamping down hard on flares. Western Sydney Wanderers received an identical sanction for the same reason last week.
FFA CEO David Gallop said he was “staggered” by the behaviour, labelling it “deplorable”.
“The behaviour of a number of Melbourne Victory supporters last Saturday night was deplorable and cast a shadow over what was a fabulous game of A-League football,” Gallop said.
“It’s staggering that these dangerous incidents happened just days after FFA had applied sanctions to the Western Sydney Wanderers because of the actions of some fans. The focus on fan behaviour could not have been more acute.
FFA handed a please explain to Victory on Monday to show cause why they should not be punished for tarnishing the game. Victory replied with a submission on Tuesday afternoon.
The rebuke means should Victory or Western Sydney fans cause any more carnage, they will be docked three competition points.
The sanction looks to now be what is in store for teams should fans from any other club bring the negative spotlight onto the game.
Victory currently sit fifth on the table at 29 points, and from the Victory camp’s perspective, they cannot afford to lose points.
FFA have also implemented a new banning procedure which was effective 16 February, which looks to stamp down the zero tolerance policy and maintain consistency with penalties.
Victory chairman Anthony Di Pietro, CEO Ian Robson, coach Kevin Muscat and captain Leigh Broxham will all address the media later today and are expected to deliver a strong message condemning the behaviour.
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