NORTH Sunshine Soccer Club is free to play at the weekend after appealing a decision to expel it from the league.
Football Federation Victoria’s independent tribunal had suspended the club from men’s state league north-west on a charge of misconduct following a “violent incident” against Sporting Whittlesea at Larissa Reserve, St Albans, on June 29.
The club, which pleaded guilty to three charges, also had its premiership points taken away and was hit with a $15,000 fine.
The Eagles were last week granted a stay of execution until an appeal hearing on August 14.
“The next two weekend’s fixtures involving North Sunshine Eagles SC will be scheduled as per the original fixtures for the relevant leagues,” an FFV spokesman said.
Sporting Whittlesea was charged with engaging in a melee, failing to control club associates and bringing the game into disrepute following a brawl which erupted after the match.
“Based on the evidence before the tribunal, the panel held the view that it was not strong enough to sustain any of the charges,” the spokesman said.
“Many reports were provided to FFV. North Sunshine pleaded guilty to three of the four charges.’’
FFV chief executive Mitchell Murphy said he hoped the initial decision would send a message to all clubs that fighting wouldn’t be tolerated.
“Football fans have a right to watch a game free of antagonistic and violent behaviour,” he said.
North Sunshine president Besnick Kutleshi declined to comment.
The Weekly understands no video evidence was provided to FFV.
Police are still investigating the incident.
