FOOTBALL Mid North Coast and Manning Great Lakes Police Command will continue investigations into a wild brawl that marred the southern all age grand final played at the Zone Field at Taree Recreation Centre between Hallidays Point and Tinonee.
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It has been claimed some players from the Hallidays Point side became involved in an altercation with spectators just after fulltime in the grand final, won 1-0 by Hallidays Point.
Police were called to the ground and one person was detained but later released.
Chief inspector John Sullivan from the Manning Great Lakes Command said investigations into the incident were continuing and asked the public to assist by submitting phone footage to police. FMNC chairman Mike Parsons confirmed that some Hallidays Point players became involved.
Mr Parsons made the decision not to go ahead with the presentation because of the melee.
“We had a duty of care for our players and spectators,’’ Mr Parsons said.
“I thought that was more important than a presentation. The medals will be sent to the clubs and they can be presented later.’’
He described the incident as ‘very disappointing,’ but stressed the fight wasn’t ‘football related.’
“It was a social issue. And it involved a very small minority of the crowd,’’ he added.
Mr Parsons promised Football Mid North Coast will take action against any players found to be in the wrong.
“We had a great game and a sizable crowd there. It is a shame the day was marred by this.’’