Revealed: Why police will be out in force at A-League Grand Final in Melbourne - as 30,000 fans head to AAMI Park for historic derby
Share this @internewscast.com

Football fans will be closely monitored by police at Saturday’s A-League Grand Final in Melbourne, as the code desperately looks to avoid a repeat of the shocking scenes from an infamous derby in 2022 that saw a pitch invasion and 29 arrests.

Victoria Police have been pulled from multiple areas – and a number of stations will temporarily close – as resources are diverted to AAMI Park in the CBD to ensure rival supporters are on their best behaviour.

It follows one of Australian soccer’s darkest episodes, where approximately 150 Victory supporters stormed the pitch, unleashing 80 flares or fireworks and forcing the abandonment of the Melbourne derby in December of 2022. 

At the time, a portion of disgruntled Victory fans announced plans pre-game via an Instagram page titled Original Style Melbourne (OSM) to storm the pitch after 20 minutes in protest of the controversial decision to hand Sydney grand final hosting rights until 2025.

‘We demand answers from Melbourne Victory,’ the lengthy social media post began following the announcement from former Australian Professional Leagues (APL) boss Danny Townsend a deal worth a least $10million had been struck with Destination NSW.

Football fans will be closely monitored by 'hundreds' of police at Saturday's A-League Grand Final (pictured from left, respective captains Aziz Behich (Melbourne City) and Roderick Miranda (Melbourne Victory)

Football fans will be closely monitored by ‘hundreds’ of police at Saturday’s A-League Grand Final (pictured from left, respective captains Aziz Behich (Melbourne City) and Roderick Miranda (Melbourne Victory)

The code is desperate to avoid a repeat of the shocking scenes from a previous Melbourne derby in 2022 that resulted in a pitch invasion (pictured) and 29 arrests

The code is desperate to avoid a repeat of the shocking scenes from a previous Melbourne derby in 2022 that resulted in a pitch invasion (pictured) and 29 arrests

Then Melbourne City goalkeeper Tom Glover left the field bleeding with a head wound (pictured) and referee Alex King, two security guards and a camera operator were injured following the mayhem

Then Melbourne City goalkeeper Tom Glover left the field bleeding with a head wound (pictured) and referee Alex King, two security guards and a camera operator were injured following the mayhem

‘The fanbase has spoken. You must back your most loyal. There is no other option. 

‘Without us there is no club. ‘Silence will be considered collusion and won’t be forgotten. ‘You are either with us, or against us.’

Fast forward to Saturday night’s Grand Final and it is widely hoped history will not repeat itself.

Thankfully, both sets of supporters on social media platforms appear to focused on the football, not engaging in anti-social behaviour.

Victoria Police have confirmed they will have a visible presence at AAMI Park, ensuring both sets of fans enjoy the game and get home safely.

‘There will be an unbelievable atmosphere on Saturday night,’ CBD Acting Commander Zorka Dunstan said in a statement.

‘The bumper crowd can expect to see plenty of police on the way to the game and at the ground itself.’

A spokesman for AAMI Park also said there would be ‘increased numbers of venue security, patron services and supervisor staff, as well as greater numbers of MSS Security and Victoria Police personnel.’

Meanwhile, an A-League spokesperson confirmed the Grand Final is a sell-out.

Socceroos star Marco Tilio (right) is the type of player football fans love to see in full flight - he looms as a key figure for Melbourne City on Saturday

Socceroos star Marco Tilio (right) is the type of player football fans love to see in full flight – he looms as a key figure for Melbourne City on Saturday

At 37, Bruno Fornaroli has proved age is just a number this season for Melbourne Victory, scoring goals for fun

At 37, Bruno Fornaroli has proved age is just a number this season for Melbourne Victory, scoring goals for fun

Two Melbourne teams chasing bragging rights and silverware in a decider is also an A-League first, dating back to 2005.

‘We are the only sport in town,’ the A-League spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia.

‘No AFL, NRL or even netball is being played (in Melbourne), so we are excited (to be in the spotlight).

‘The capacity at AAMI Park is just over 30,000, and we have sold all tickets.

‘Fans can enjoy the spectacle, and also see Socceroos such as Marco Tilio, Mat Leckie, Aziz Behich and Daniel Arzani in the flesh.’

Melbourne City are unbeaten in their last eight games – but have not beaten arch-rivals Melbourne Victory since April of 2023.

Kick-off is 7:40pm, with the action live on Channel 10 and Paramount +. 

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Jamie and Rebekah Vardy’s Possible Move to Italy: Idolized by Devoted Fans, Enjoying Romantic Boat Rides and Vibrant Nightlife… But Don’t Count on a Pizza-Filled Diet under Napoli’s Coach!

Jamie Vardy could write the final chapter of his hard-as-nails career in…

Adrien Rabiot’s Mother Involves Mason Greenwood in Controversy Over Intense Marseille Training Ground Dispute Leading to Transfer Listing

Adrien Rabiot’s mother has broken her silence following the incident where the…

Adidas and David Beckham Launch Eye-Catching Pink Predator Elite Boots

The legendary midfielder David Beckham remains devoted to his beloved adidas Predator…

Eberechi Eze Mural Emerges Near Emirates Stadium Prior to Potential Arsenal Transfer

Arsenal fans clearly can’t wait for Eberechi Eze to join their ranks.…

This was a complete disaster. The Rangers’ performance was dreadful, and the mood at Ibrox became very tense…

Considering the lackluster and unconvincing performances by Rangers during the initial weeks…

Jamie Carragher Warns Liverpool About Alexander Isak Threat and Potential Title Impact

Liverpool risk blowing their Premier League title chances if they bank on…

Newcastle United’s Premier League Competitor Sets Sights on Making Nicolas Jackson a Top Transfer Target

Aston Villa have made Chelsea outcast Nicolas Jackson their priority signing for…

Leeds Thrives at Elland Road on Big Night as Everton Struggles More Than Last Season, Reports AADAM PATEL

Daniel Farke called on the Leeds fans to make Elland Road a…

Marcus Rashford Discusses His Move from Man United to Barcelona and the Unique Nickname from His New Teammates

Marcus Rashford has shared the reasons behind his loan move to Barcelona…

Manchester United Ramps Up Negotiations with Leading Goalkeeper Prospect: Implications for Andre Onana’s Future

Andre Onana is expected to stay at Manchester United even if they…

Aston Villa Unveils Stained Glass-Inspired 2025/26 Third Kit

Aston Villa has unveiled their third kit for the 2025/26 season, which…