ACT police are investigating an alleged brawl involving NPL players from Canberra Croatia and Gungahlin United in the Deakin Stadium car park, following their match last Sunday.
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A brawl is alleged to have taken place at the conclusion of the July 18 match, during which Gungahlin posted an upset 5-1 win over the ladder leaders. Eleven yellow cards were brandished by the referee during the second fiery meeting between the two sides this year.
An ACT police spokesperson confirmed they were investigating the incident that occurred about 5.20pm on Sunday at Hannah Place, and the persons of interest had been identified.
However, they did not provide specifics about how many people were involved or the exact circumstances surrounding the alleged fight.
"As the investigations are continuing, it would be inappropriate for police to comment further," the spokesperson said.
Tensions between the two sides began when they first met in round seven.
An on-field incident erupted after Gungahlin came away with a 1-0 win at the AIS, with players on the sideline engaging in a push and shove following the final whistle.
Capital Football did not confirm if any disciplinary action had been handed out to either side after the May 23 incident.
They also remained tight lipped about if any disciplinary action would or could be handed out for the off-field altercation last Sunday in round 14.
"The matter is being investigated by Capital Football. While it is still an active investigation, no further comments can be made," a spokesperson said.
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The code's peak body in the ACT launched a RESPECT campaign last month to reduce abuse, from the grassroots up to the NPL/NPLW, after incidents towards referees, coaches, players and volunteers continued.
In a statement, the Capital Football board said there was no acceptable level of abuse.
"Lead by example and stand up and speak out against abuse," it said. "We would all agree that misconduct and/or abuse anywhere in football is unacceptable. This disrespectful behaviour has no place in our game, and has got to stop."
It is the second incident at Deakin Stadium in a matter of weeks, after another off-field incident kicked off during Croatia's match against Monaro Panthers FC in round 11.
A Croatia player was shown a red card and was met by a Monaro spectator in the players' tunnel, before an altercation broke out. A police spokesperson confirmed they are also investigating the alleged June 27 assault.
"Anyone who witnessed either incident, or who may have video footage of it, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers ACT on 1800 333 00 or via the website," they said.
"Information can be given anonymously."
Isobel Cootes
Sports reporter at The Canberra Times. A Novocastrian with a passion for football (or soccer as they call it in the capital) via The Examiner and The Port Lincoln Times.
Sports reporter at The Canberra Times. A Novocastrian with a passion for football (or soccer as they call it in the capital) via The Examiner and The Port Lincoln Times.
