An investigation into Altona East Phoenix’s final round match with Uni Hill Eagles has cleared the club, paving the way for the Phoenix to celebrate their promotion into FV state league 1 north-west.
The Phoenix’s final round match state league 2 north-west match with the Eagles was abandoned in the 43rd minute after Eagles players’ alleged racist comments were directed at one of their players. The Eagles decided to pull their players from the pitch
Scores were locked at 0-0 at the time.
In a statement, Football Victoria confirmed it received a report in the days following the match from Uni Hill Eagles alleging racist comments directed at one of its players during the round 22 clash with Altona Phoenix.
The Phoenix released a statement from president Leigh Karafillis in early October, saying that Football Victoria had concluded its investigation into the abandoned game and determined Altona East Phoenix didn’t breach FV’s grievance, disciplinary and tribunal by-law or spectator code of conduct.
With the investigation concluded, it confirmed the Phoenix’s second placed finish behind Lalor United.
The top two teams get promoted.
“This season was built on hard work, resilience, and belief,” the Phoenix said on social media.
“From the very beginning, we set our sights on promotion — and today, we can proudly say we achieved exactly that.
“Our PAOK family has been part of every step — this success belongs to all of us.
“With Football Victoria’s investigation now concluded, we can finally celebrate what we’ve worked so hard for — promotion secured.
“This promotion is for every player, coach, volunteer, committee member, supporter, and family who has worn and still wears black and white with pride over the last 45 years of our wonderful history.”
