AFL pitch invader handed lifetime ban for ‘dangerous’ act

A pitch invader who tried to pull off two stupid acts at Marvel Stadium has been handed a massive ban from the AFL.

An AFL pitch invader, who is the brother of a Bulldogs player and friends with Collingwood favourite Brayden Maynard, has been handed a lifetime ban from footy.

Conor Clarke tried to come back into Marvel Stadium during the Magpies’ win over the Kangaroos on Sunday, having already been ejected for running onto the ground during the fourth quarter.

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The AFL has handed down its penalty on Tuesday afternoon, with Clarke handed a lifetime ban, which can be reviewed in five years.

A statement from the AFL said Clarke “ran onto the ground and at venue security staff“ on Sunday.

The ban for Clarke, who is not a member of a club or the AFL, includes all AFL and AFLW matches.

The AFL confirmed Clarke had been removed from Marvel Stadium by Victorian Police and then attempted to get back into the ground via another entrance.

Conor Clarke runs onto the field during the match between North Melbourne and Collingwood. (Photo by Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos/Getty Images)

Pitch invader Conor Clarke has been handed lifetime ban, seen (right) with Brayden Maynard after the game.

The league is keen to send a strong message about the consequences of these types of actions from people attending games.

“Running onto the ground during a match is dangerous, senseless and unlawful,” AFL General Counsel Stephen Meade said.

“As we reiterated earlier in the year, if you choose to do it you will have deal with local authorities and ultimately lose the privilege of attending AFL matches.”

Clarke was also handed two penalty notices from Victoria Police.

Clarke’s brother Charlie was taken with pick 24 in the 2022 draft by the Western Bulldogs and debuted in Round 8 this year against Hawthorn.

That is Charlie Clarke’s sole appearance this season.

Conor Clarke was pictured post-game posing with Maynard, who was celebrating his 200th AFL game, still wearing the same clothes he wore onto the ground - with a visible grass stain on his pants.