Tara Murray
An Essendon District Football League division 1 match between St Albans and Hillside was called off early and police had to attend after a scuffle.
Hillside was leading at Kings Park, when the incident occurred about three quarter time.
Players along with spectators from both sides were involved and umpires made the decision to end the game with a quarter remaining.
Police were called to the ground to help with end the situation.
A police spokesperson said that there were no injuries reported to police.
“Police attended a football game in Kings Park on Saturday, 20 May,” they said.
“It is understood players from both teams and spectators were fighting at a sports ground on Gillespie Road about 4pm.
“Police arrived and separated the parties. There were no official complaints made to police and no one was taken into custody.”
The league said it wouldn’t be making any comments pending further investigation into the game.
Both club presidents, St Albans’ James Perkin and Hillside’s Sebastian Buccheri, said they had no comment at this stage.
Hillside was leading 9.5 (59)-5.11 (41) at the time and have at this stage been awarded the four points.
Bailey Ryan had kicked three goals for the Sharks, while Lachlan Pettigrove was named their best.
For the Saints, Bol Kolang kicked two goals, while Jake Galea was named their best.
The Sharks now sit second on the ladder, while the Saints have slipped to sixth if the result stands.
The result marred an otherwise good round of football, which included a couple of upsets.
Rupertswood was able to hold off Deer Park in a thriller, winning 13.5 (83)-12.10 (82).
The Sharks ked throughout the game, with the margin 13 points at the last break.
The Lions had plenty of opportunities late, kicking 4-6 in the final term to snatch the win, but weren’t able to do so.
Todd Elton kicked five goals for the Lions, while Lachlan Smart kicked three goals.
Scott Greenhough was named their best alongside Tim Quick.
The Lions have slipped to third on the ladder, equal on points with Rupertswood and Roxburgh Park.
In premier division, Keilor won the battle of the undefeated teams, beating East Keilor.
The Cougars led at quarter time before the Blues kicked seven goals in the second term to take control of the match.
The Blues were able to keep the momentum going as they won 18.7 (115)-6.10 (46).
Kane Barbuto kicked five goals in a best on ground performance for the Blues.
In division 2, Taylors Lakes was too strong for the Sunbury Kangaroos, winning 16.6 (102)-12.7 (79).
Aaron Vendramini was named the Lions best.
Burnside Height was too strong for East Sunbury underlights, winning 15.19 (109)-3.2 (20).
