Police release CCTV pictures in hunt for Anzac Day footy thugs

Police have ramped up the hunt for two men who bashed a Bombers supporter in the MCG toilets on Anzac Day.

Police have released pictures of the men they want to speak to. Picture: Supplied

Police have ramped up the hunt for two men believed to be responsible for a brutal MCG bashing on Anzac Day, releasing clear CCTV pictures in a bid to identify the pair.

A 54-year-old Kensington man was set upon by two men in the toilets during the fourth quarter of the Collingwood-Essendon game at an event in the Olympic Room.

The Bombers fan said he was punched around 15 times, sustaining facial injuries before spending the night in hospital.

The incident allegedly occurred after he criticised two young men for vaping.

More than 600 people attended the Essendon-hosted corporate event, with police since scanning through the guest list as well as hours of CCTV footage.

The victim says he was punched around 15 times in the attack. Picture: Supplied

Event attendees were entitled to a five-hour alcoholic beverage package before and during the match.

Investigators have now released a clear CCTV images of the men they want to speak to over the incident.

The victim in April told 9 News he was repeatedly struck in the head.

“(They) just left hooked me right to the side of my face … that spun me around, instantaneously I lost vision,” he said.

“Before I even got a chance … just a hail of strikes to the front and back of my head, repeatedly.

“It turns out they were probably paid guests or part of a corporate table.

“I had never laid eyes on these people prior to this incident in the toilet.”

The attack was the first of two violent incidents at the MCG in the first half of the AFL season, with a man struck in the head with a didgeridoo only weeks later at the Dreamtime at the ‘G game.

More than 50 fans were escorted out of the stadium and two police officers assaulted during the Richmond-Essendon clash.

A Dandenong North man was later charged over the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.