adminAustralian police have released images of people they want to trace after “shocking” violence erupted at a football match.
Fans invaded the pitch and Melbourne City’s goalkeeper was hit in the face with a sand-filled bucket and needed hospital treatment.
The trouble erupted during the derby against Melbourne Victory on Saturday, with players and the referee fleeing down the tunnel.
Victoria Police said more than 150 people poured onto the pitch and a “significant number of flares were ignited and thrown through the crowd”.
Two people were injured by the bucket – goalie Tom Glover and referee Alex King, while a cameraman suffered bruising and burnt clothing after a flare hit the back of his head.
Police are also investigating cases of assault and criminal damage and have released pictures of people who “might be able to assist with enquiries”.
Detectives are working with the clubs and football authorities to track down those who may have been involved as part of Operation Astute.
“What we saw last night from those who chose to invade the pitch was shocking, disgraceful and lacked total respect for the game of football,” said Superintendent Jason Goddard.
“I’m a lover of the game and I actually feel sad about what I saw play out on the pitch last night”.
Mr Goddard said he had “no doubt we’ll be knocking on a few doors soon”.
On Saturday, Football Australia – the game’s governing body, said the scenes at AAMI Park were “shocking”.
It added: “Such behaviour has no place in Australian Football, with a full Football Australia investigation to commence immediately, where strong sanctions will be handed down.” – Sky Sports
Bongani Ndlovu