Banned Melbourne Victory supporter among group allegedly making homophobic slurs
A Melbourne Victory supporter, serving a life ban, was allowed to remain at an NPL game and was part of a group allegedly making homophobic slurs against rival players.
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A Melbourne Victory supporter, serving a life ban, was allowed into an NPL Victoria match in Shepparton on Saturday where he and fellow supporters allegedly aimed homophobic slurs at rival players and let off flares.
The man, part of the ultra group Horda and the larger North Terrace supporter group, was one of several Victory fans banned following the disgraceful A-League pitch invasion in 2022.
Melbourne Victory confirmed the incident occurred at John McEwen Reserve but he was not ejected over safety concerns for staff and other spectators.
The small group of supporters was in Shepparton in protest of Victory’s Pride Cup A-League double-header against Adelaide United and reportedly aimed several homophobic slurs at Green Gully players and rival fans.
Green Gully won the match 2-1.
Melbourne Victory said its security was taken by surprise when the group travelled to Shepparton.
“We are awaiting our full security and risk report, however, we understand there was one person known to the club who attended that is the subject of a current Football Australia and Football Victoria ban,” a club statement said.
“Once the relevant person was identified and the request was made for the individual to leave without response, a risk assessment was undertaken, which determined that removal was likely to present a greater security risk to both precinct security and supporter marshals and that actions would be taken accordingly.
“We did not expect the supporter group to attend the NPL match in Shepparton, given the A-League matches that took place at the same time at AAMI Park.
“The matter has been raised with Football Victoria and highlights the need for a consistent approach between all levels of the game on these matters.”
Football Victoria said it was investigating how a banned spectactor was allowed entry in the first place.
“We continue to work closely with all clubs to reinforce our expectations regarding spectators and code of conduct to ensure compliance with regulations, anti-social behaviour of any kind is unacceptable, and we remain committed to making our game a safe, inviting and enjoyable environment for all,” a statement read.
“FV is working with Melbourne Victory and the venue to review match-day procedures and investigate how these individuals’ gained entry. This matter is currently under active review and investigation.”
The group gathered in a corner of the pitch, draping their banners over the fence.
They let off flares when Victory equalised in the 75th minute, only to see Green Gully score the winner 60 seconds later.
On the same day Victory was hosting a Pride Cup double-header against Adelaide United, celebrating the club and league’s inclusivity.
Fellow fans have slammed those who didn’t attend, given the importance of the fixture to Victory’s A-League season.
It is understood the supporter group has also recently been in negotiations over its place and freedoms in the stands.
The club said homophobic behaviour had no place at
“There is no place at Melbourne Victory for people that have a clear disregard for supporting our teams, the culture we have worked hard to build, or ensuring the entire community knows Melbourne Victory is a place of inclusivity,” Victory’s statement said.
“As a club, we have a vision, standards, and values that the club will lead, unite, connect, and inspire through football, and we will fiercely protect the individuals who show up and demonstrate the values we hold dear at Melbourne Victory.”
Football Victoria condemned the behaviour, saying fans could face sanctions.
“FV condemns discriminatory language in any form including homophobia,” the league said.
“We are aware of several reports recently and will work to educate our community on the importance of respect and inclusion within our game, and when confirmed and where appropriate will sanction those responsible.”
Originally published as Banned Melbourne Victory supporter among group allegedly making homophobic slurs
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