VFL clash between Port Melbourne and Werribee marred by racism

“Enough is enough”: An investigation is underway into claims a spectator racially vilified a player in a VFL clash. Here’s what we know.

A player was racially vilified in Friday night’s game. Photo: Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images.

Footy’s ugly side has reared its head after a player was racially vilified by a spectator during last weekend’s VFL clash between Port Melbourne and Werribee.

The AFL, along with the two clubs, is investigating the incident from Friday night’s clash at ETU Stadium.

In statements released in recent days, clubs said a player was racially targeted with the remarks heard by other players and spectators.

Werribee said “enough is enough” in a statement released on Wednesday afternoon.

“The Werribee Football Club is an inclusive and community-based club that works diligently to provide a safe and welcoming environment for our players, officials, staff, members, supporters, spectators and patrons supporting our team or our opponents,” the club said.

“Vilification, racial or otherwise, has absolutely no place in our club, nor do the people who perpetuate or accept this behaviour.

“These are not empty words or hollow sentiments.”

In its statement, Port Melbourne chief executive Paul Malcolm said security was alerted to the incident describing it as “extremely poor behaviour”.

“Port Melbourne Football Club in no way condones this behaviour and advises all of our members, supporters, sponsors, partners, players, coaches, and volunteers that we will not stand by and allow this to occur.

“Be it verbal at a game or posted on social media.

“Our aim is to be an inclusive, supportive, and friendly club. One that supports our VFL and VFLW players and officials, and we will continue to ensure the environment we operate in, and opposition teams compete in, is inclusive and free of any abhorrent behaviour.

“If you’re at a game and you witness this behaviour do the right thing and call it out.

“To the players involved, we offer our unconditional apology to you and trust that you recognise we are totally against the actions and are here to support you.”

The AFL said it is continuing to investigate the incident.

“The AFL strongly condemns racism and there is absolutely no place for racism in our game at any level, whether that‘s on the field or from the other side of the fence,” a statement said.

Anyone who was at Friday’s game and can provide more information can do so via the AFL’s Respect and Responsibility form which can be found here.