FFA CEO David Gallop has called on “true fans” of the Hyundai A-League to be part of the solution in eradicating troublemakers from the game.
Today (Thurs) Western Sydney Wanderers were fined $50,000 and given a suspended three (3) competition point deduction.
The sanction was handed down after FFA found some Wanderers fans took part in a pre-meditated and coordinated series of incidents, including the ignition of flares and detonators and the display of unauthorised banners at last Saturday’s match against Melbourne Victory at Etihad Stadium.
Gallop said the behaviour did not reflect the vast majority of Hyundai A-League fans.
“It saddens me that the game and good football people have had their reputation damaged this week,” he said at the announcement of the sanctions.
Wanderers found guilty of bringing the game into disrepute
He described the actions as “nothing short of deplorable” and that it was “criminal behaviour that cannot be tolerated”, adding there was anecdotal evidence that families left the venue before full time.
“These troublemakers can’t be allowed to dominate the way the game is viewed.
“We’re looking for good football fans to be vigilant in relation to this behaviour.
“Good football fans can help us make sure this sort of thing is not the way is looked upon,” he said.
“Definitely there’s an opportunity here for true football fans to help us be vigilant about these troublemakers coming into their section [of the venue] and being only there to cause trouble.”
A national flare management plan will be announced next week.
