Image: John Punshon
The Springvale White Eagles and Dandenong Thunder have both been deducted two NPL2 East competition points each following supporter misconduct in their Round 2 clash last month.
An independent tribunal made the ruling last night with both clubs found guilty of failing to control their spectators following a crowd disturbance in the second half.
With Springvale leading the contest 1-0 in the 60th minute, a brawl erupted in the stands which escalated, forcing the referee to halt proceedings for approximately 10 minutes.
The match resumed shortly afterwards with the hosts eventually prevailing 2-1 thanks to goals from Cody Martindale and Tapiwanashe Munyanyiwa in a contest played in front of a four-figure crowd.
TCF understands both clubs are contemplating appealing the decision.
The points deduction sees Springvale slip from first to third while Dandenong Thunder moves down from third to fourth.
Dandenong City now replace the White Eagles as league front-runners with both Springvale and Thunder playing home fixtures this week against Sunshine and Northcote respectively.
Further details regarding the tribunal ruling are expected to be released on the FFV’s website this afternoon.