WRFL: Police investigate Wyndhamvale and Parkside brawl

Two clubs involved in an all-in brawl sparked by an alleged coward punch have spoken publicly for the first time.

Two clubs at the centre of a wild local footy brawl which involved an alleged king hit have spoken out for the first time since the incident.

The Western Region Football League Division 2 reserves clash between Wyndhamvale and Parkside was ended early in the final quarter after a brawl broke out between the two sides involving players on Saturday.

It’s understood the incident broke out when a player struck an opponent from behind.

The player who struck the first below is then believed to have been struck by an official from the opposing team.

Wyndhamvale released a statement via its social media channels on Tuesday afternoon.

“In light of the weekend’s events, the Wyndhamvale Football Club would like to be clear that we are abhorred by violence and do not condone it on any level,” the statement said.

“We are cooperating with VICPol and the WRFL in their ongoing investigations.

“We are unable to comment on the incidents during this stage, but we reiterate our strong stance against violence and will continue to educate our club on this stance.”

Parkside made a similar statement of their own.

“Parkside Football Club will work with Victoria Police (and) WRFL as they conduct investigations into the incidents that took place during the reserves game at Wyndhamvale on Saturday. We are unable to make any comments on the incidents at this point in time,” the Magpies said.

“We do not condone violence and player safety is paramount at our club.”

Victoria Police provided a statement to Leader on Sunday afternoon in regards to the alleged incident.

“Police are investigating an assault during a football match in Werribee on 6 May,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said on Sunday.

“A man was punched in the head during the game at Wyndham Vale South Reserve shortly after 1.30pm.

“He was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

“Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

“Any witnesses are urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au”

It’s understood no official field umpires were in place for the clash with one club supplied umpire taking control of the game for the entire match.

It’s not clear whether any spectators became involved.

Wyndhamvale was awarded the four points after leading 4.8 (32) to 4.7 (31) when the game was called off.

The game was a grand final rematch from last year.

Meanwhile, Parkside claimed the senior contest by one-point in a thriller.