SANFL to investigate after u-13s game between Fitzroy and North Haven was abandoned by umpire

The weekend children’s football match was called off in the third quarter after umpires handed out too blue cards for unacceptable or threatening behaviour.

The SANFL has launched an investigation after a kids’ footy game was called off early following ‘unacceptable’ off-field behaviour. Picture: Supplied

The SANFL has launched an investigation after an under-13s game between Fitzroy and North Haven was abandoned during the third quarter on Sunday.

“We are aware of an incident during the quarter of an under-13s game between North Haven and Fitzroy which resulted in the umpire issuing two blue cards and abandoning the game.’’ an SANFL spokesperson said.

According to the SANFL website, a blue card can be issued by an umpire or other official “who deems off-field behaviour to be unacceptable’’.

“Behaviour may be deemed unacceptable if the official considers it threatening or not in the spirit of the game,’’ it says.

The game can restart after one blue card but “in the event of a second blue card being shown during the game, then the game will stop and will not restart’’.

The Advertiser has been told a member of North Haven struck a Fitzroy player.

“We have zero tolerance to behaviours that do not meet the standards we expect of players, officials, families and spectators,’’ the SANFL spokesperson said.

“As such, SANFL staff will now undertake a full investigation if the incident including consideration of appropriate penalties and/or sanctions.’’

North Haven president Lucas Maczkowiack declined to comment.

Fitzroy has been contacted for comment.