The battle for the second promotion spot in FV state league 2 north-west has ended with a game being abandoned and Football Victoria conducting an investigation.
Altona East Phoenix and Uni Hill Eagles played each other in the final round, with both sides still in with a chance of finishing second.
The Phoenix was in the box seat with the Eagles needing a big win to overtake it.
Saturday’s match was officially abandoned in the 43rd minutes after Eagles players’ alleged racist comments were directed at one of their players.
Star Weekly understands that an Eagles player alleged he was copping racial abuse from near the Phoenix bench.
The referees didn’t hear the alleged abuse and it continued on.
It’s then believed In the 28th minute, the Eagles captain decided to take a stand and pulled his players from the ground.
Scores were locked at 0-0 at the time.
In a statement, Football Victoria confirmed it received a report on Monday from Uni Hill Eagles alleging racist comments directed at one of its players during the round 22 clash with Altona Phoenix.
“FV condemns discriminatory abuse of any kind and treats allegations of this nature with the utmost seriousness. An investigation into the incident has commenced,” the statement said.
“Following the conclusion of the investigation, FV may issue misconduct charge(s) with appropriate recommended penalties which align with the discipline regulations.”
Separately, FV competitions determined the outcome of the match, which was abandoned in approximately the 43rd minute, following the Eagles decision to leave the pitch.
In line with competition rules and taking into account the referee’s report, scoreline and minutes played, FV has deemed the competition fixture a 0-0 no result.
The Eagles made a statement on social media.
“We stand shoulder to shoulder with our players and their right to feel safe, respected, and supported both on and off the pitch,” it said.
“The matter has now been formally referred to Football Victoria, and we will respect their process and leave the matter in their hands.
“Our club is built on unity, diversity, and family, and we will always continue to protect and uphold those values.”
The Phoenix finished the season in second to seal promotion, three points clear of the Eagles.
The club’s women’s sides were set to play on Sunday, but the Phoenix forfeited that match.
Altona East Phoenix was contacted for comment.
