Three men have been charged today following a mass pitch invasion during Saturday’s A-League match at AAMI Park.
A 23-year-old Craigieburn man has been charged in relation to an alleged incident where Melbourne City’s goalkeeper was struck in the head with a bucket full of sand.
He has been charged with violent disorder, discharge missile, intent to cause injury, recklessly cause injury, unlawful assault, entry to sporting competition space, disrupting a match, public nuisance and riotous behaviour.
A 19-year-old Meadow Heights man has been charged also in relation to a separate alleged assault on the goalkeeper, as well as an alleged assault on a security guard.
He has been charged with violent disorder, discharge missile, three counts of unlawful assault, entry to competition space, disrupting a match, public nuisance, riotous behaviour, discharge and possess flare.
An 18-year-old Alphington man has been charged in relation to the alleged separate assault on the goalkeeper as well as criminal damage caused to the venue.
He has been charged with violent disorder, criminal damage, unlawful assault, entry to competition space, disrupting a match, public nuisance and riotous behaviour.
All three men self-presented to police stations today and have subsequently been bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 27 February.
The charges come as detectives from the North West Metro Regional Crime Squad continue to investigate the entire incident as part of Operation Astute.
More than 150 football fans run onto the field during Saturday night’s match after a significant number of flares were ignited and thrown through the crowd.
The following details are alleged to have occurred:
• Approximately 50 flares were lit within the stands and at least three were thrown onto the field
• Four men were injured during the incident, including a goalkeeper, cameraman and two security guards.
• Approximately $120,000 worth of damage was caused to the venue
• Bottles were thrown at the Public Order Response Team who responded on the field
Detectives are continuing to appeal for public assistance, and have released images of more people who may be able to assist with their enquiries in relation to the incident.
Police are continuing to trawl through detailed vision of the incidents, and those involved are strongly urged to make themselves known to police immediately.
Anyone who witnessed the incidents, with information or phone vision is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link.
