Police probe A-League pitch invasion

Finbar O'Mallon | December 18, 2022

Police are investigating a violent pitch invasion at the A-League Men Melbourne derby that left a player, a referee and a Network 10 cameraman injured.

Victoria Police have launched Operation Astute and already have a number of active enquiries based on footage of the Saturday night incident.

Detectives are also calling for witnesses, footage and anyone with information to come forward. No arrests have been made.

The ugly scenes saw the Melbourne Victory clash with Melbourne City abandoned at the 20th minute after Victory fans stormed the pitch.

During the invasion a man is seen throwing a metal bucket full of sand at the head of City goalkeeper Tom Glover, whose head was cut, requiring stitches and leaving him with a suspected concussion.

Referee Alex King, who went to protect Glover, was also struck by the bucket.

Earlier, a flare hit a Network 10 cameraman in the back of the head which police said left him with a contusion and burned clothing.

The nasty scenes made worldwide news and Victory issued a late-night apology to those affected.

Football Australia, which manages judiciary matters, has promised heavy penalties and “strong sanctions” against those responsible.

Both sets of fans had planned to walk out at the 20-minute mark as part of a protest towards the Australian Professional Leagues’ decision to sell the next three grand finals to Sydney.

They had earlier chanted “f*** the APL” while unfurling banners pre-game and during the match, and throwing flares onto the playing arena.

But the situation escalated when a flare from the Victory active area hit the cameraman, then exploded when Glover picked up another flare off the ground and threw it back into the stands.

About 150 fans then rushed the pitch at about 8.00pm.

Glover and King were both struck by the metal bucket, which was filled with sand to be able to dispose of flares.

Players from both teams were rushed down the tunnel, while fans were swinging from the goal at the Victory end of the ground.

The game was suspended for close to 45 minutes before officials made the decision to abandon the fixture.

Socceroos legend Mark Schwarzer was part of a wave of football figures who condemned the violence.

“What is wrong with people? It happens time & time again,” he posted on Twitter.