Police Defend A-League Final Security Measures After Pre-Match Flare Incidents
Police Defend Heavy Presence at A-League Final After Flares, Officer Injury
By Melissa Meehan and James Cooney | Published: 06:05 BST, 1 June 2025 | Updated: 06:07 BST, 1 June 2025
Victoria Police have refused to apologize for deploying a significant show of force during Saturday’s A-League Grand Final between Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory, following chaotic pre-match scenes that left one officer hospitalized.
Riot police, mounted units, and heavily armed officers were stationed at AAMI Park amid concerns over fan behavior. While the match itself saw a record crowd of 29,902 and mostly peaceful attendance, violence erupted hours earlier as supporters marched through Swan Street. Over 20 flares were lit before kickoff—with six thrown inside the stadium—and one officer required medical treatment after being kicked in the face by an unidentified assailant.
[Image: Police in riot gear line the streets near AAMI Park. Caption: A heavy police presence monitored crowds ahead of the match.]
Injuries and Investigations
The injured officer suffered a split jaw that needed surgical glue to close. “This was a deliberate attack on a member of police simply doing his job,” said Acting Commander Zorka Dunstan, who noted the incident remains under investigation. Authorities reported 11 evictions, four penalty notices, and one arrest linked to an alleged assault on a security guard during the event.
[Image: A police officer with facial injuries. Caption: An officer was hospitalized after being kicked during pre-match clashes.]
Police Cite Past Incidents
Commander Dunstan defended the police response, citing previous clashes between rival fan groups. “Two months ago, we saw an affray involving these supporters. We have an obligation to act on such risks,” she said. Inside the stadium, behavior was largely “fantastic,” but tensions flared outside, with flares hurled at officers and crowds.
Victorian Police Minister Anthony Carbines backed the approach, stating, “I make no apologies for a strong police presence. Past behavior often predicts future actions, and while most fans behaved well, there will always be incidents.”
[Image: Mounted police patrol outside the stadium. Caption: Mounted units were part of the security measures.]
Match Outcome and Reactions
The historic all-Melbourne Final ended with a 1-0 victory for Melbourne City in a tightly contested match. However, the focus shifted post-game to security and fan conduct. Both clubs and the A-League have been approached for comment.
[Image: Fans celebrating in the stands. Caption: A record crowd attended the first Melbourne derby Grand Final.]
Critics questioned the scale of the police presence, but officials emphasized public safety as the priority. “We anticipated risks based on intelligence,” Dunstan added. “The majority cooperated, but a reckless minority forced our response.”
With debates over sporting event security intensifying, the incident highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing fan enthusiasm with community protection.
