The streets of Melbourne were awash in red and yellow as boisterous soccer fans ignited flares amid a heavy police presence during the A-League Grand Final.
Striking images captured the disorderly scenes outside AAMI Park, where fans gathered to witness the clash between Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City FC. Supporters draped in team scarves were seen confronting police officers, who were deployed in large numbers ahead of the match.
According to The Herald Sun, some fans were heard chanting anti-police slogans.
Past encounters between these two teams have seen similar unrest, including a notorious 2022 incident when around 150 fans invaded the pitch. During that event, goalkeeper Tom Glover was allegedly hit in the head with a metal bucket, leading to life bans for some involved.
Victoria Police CBD Acting Commander Zorka Dunstan confirmed that certain fans had been barred from attending the Saturday night match due to “reckless” behaviour earlier in the season.
“Most supporters do the right thing and contribute to a fantastic atmosphere for everyone, including families,” Dunstan said in a pre-match statement.
“However, we’ve witnessed a small number of fans engaging in reckless and antisocial conduct. As a result, some have been banned from attending this major event.”
He added that Richmond residents, especially those near Swan Street, would see a “strong and dedicated police presence throughout the night.”
“There’s going to be an electric atmosphere as two long-time Melbourne rivals meet in the Grand Final for the first time,” Dunstan said.
Fans had also reportedly lit flares under a Swan Street bridge on their way to a game just two weeks prior.
