Football Victoria has imposed initial match restrictions on Preston Lions FC following the display of anti-Greek and sexist banners during the club’s National Premier Leagues Victoria Men’s match against South Melbourne FC on Saturday 18 July.
The governing body said the conduct of a group of Preston Lions supporters was “utterly disgraceful” and confirmed that two rounds of fixtures involving the club will be played behind closed doors while its investigation continues.
Under the initial sanctions, Preston Lions’ NPL Men’s home matches against Bentleigh Greens SC on 24 July and Green Gully SC on 31 July will be played without spectators.
The NPL Women’s match against Keilor Park on 24 July and the U23 Men’s match on 31 July will also be played behind closed doors.
Football Victoria said it was uncertain whether a safe and respectful environment could be accommodated at Preston Lions fixtures while the investigation remains underway.
“Victorian football belongs to everyone who supports our game,” Football Victoria said in a statement.
“It should never be diminished by a small minority who use football as a platform for vilification and FV will act decisively to protect the wider community.”
The organisation thanked members of the football community who had provided information to assist with the investigation, saying the response had been important in establishing the facts surrounding the incidents.
The matter has also been referred to the independent Football Victoria Tribunal, which will consider whether further sanctions should be imposed on individuals and/or the club.
Potential penalties include financial sanctions, education and training requirements, points deductions and further match restrictions.
Football Victoria said further enforcement under its Three Strike Policy also remained under consideration.
The decision follows widespread condemnation of banners displayed during the 18 July match, including an “ANTI-HELLASS” banner and other material containing racist and sexist references targeting the Greek community and women.
The incident prompted Football Victoria to launch an investigation, with the governing body previously saying it was working to identify those responsible.
The Dockerty Cup Final between South Melbourne FC and Preston Lions FC on Saturday 8 August will, however, proceed with spectators.
Football Victoria said enhanced event controls would be introduced for the final, including a reduced venue capacity and an online pre-purchased ticketing system, with no tickets available at the gate.
Additional security measures will include an increased security presence, enhanced screening and increased surveillance.
Football Victoria acknowledged that the restrictions would affect supporters who were not involved in the incidents.
“These are not measures FV wishes to impose,” the organisation said.
“We recognise these restrictions will impact thousands of genuine football supporters who simply want to enjoy the games and support their clubs in a safe and enjoyable environment.”
Football Victoria said the measures were not intended to be a sustainable approach for Victorian football and called on those responsible for bringing division into the game to take responsibility for their actions.
“The overwhelming majority of people involved in Victorian football are passionate, respectful and inclusive,” it said.
“They deserve to participate in an environment that reflects those values, not one overshadowed by the actions of a small minority.”
