Spectators banned from attending AFLW and SANFLW games, as of Saturday, amid coronavirus fears
Fans have been locked out of Australia’s ODI against New Zealand, and the Australian Grand Prix has been cancelled. Now, supporters will also be kept from attending AFLW and SANFLW games starting from Saturday.
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Adelaide fans hoping to catch a glimpse of Erin Phillips’ return to the field after a week’s absence will be forced to watch from home as the AFL bans all fans from attending AFLW games as of Saturday.
In a statement issued on Friday afternoon, the AFL said from March 14 onwards only “players, coaches, essential club officials, umpires, AFL officials, broadcast teams, media and required venue staff” would be allowed into stadiums for AFLW games.
That means all fans will be locked out of the oval and unable to watch Adelaide’s round six match against GWS at Hisense Stadium (Richmond Oval) live on Sunday.
The statement said that “given the timing”, Friday night’s AFL match between Geelong and North Melbourne would go ahead as planned and fans would be fans permitted to attend.
Adelaide chief executive Andrew Fagan said while it was disappointing for members and fans, the club supported the decision.
“This decision has been made in the best interests of the health and safety of our players, coaches, staff, members and fans,” Fagan said.
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“These are trying times and it is crucial that we do whatever we can to limit the spread of the coronavirus.
“As we have done in the past, I am sure the Crows family will stick together and get through what is a constantly and quickly changing situation that is affecting sporting leagues worldwide.”
Meanwhile, no spectators will be permitted to attend SANFL matches from Saturday until further notice.
“However, due to the timing of this decision, tonight’s (Friday) two SANFL Statewide Super Women’s League matches at X Convenience Oval (Elizabeth), as well the Statewide Super League men’s trial matches at Thebarton Oval and Coopers Stadium (Norwood), will go ahead as usual, with supporters allowed entry,” a league statement said.
The restrictions will apply to tomorrow’s two remaining Round 4 SANFLW matches at Flinders University Stadium (Noarlunga) and the men’s trial match between Central District and Sturt.
Only players, umpires and officials will be allowed entry into the matches.
All under 16 and under 18 Torrens University Cup matches scheduled at various grounds on Sunday also will be played under these entry restrictions.