Arabic version: احتجاز شخصين عقب اضطراب في نهائي كرة القدم الأسترالية للناشئين في كانبيرا

According to ABC News, two people were briefly taken into custody after reports that flares were set off and items were thrown at players during an Under 18s AFL Canberra Grand Final at Phillip Oval in Canberra.

ACT Policing officers were called to the venue at about 8:30pm following reports of a disturbance during the match between Marist College and the Belconnen Magpies. Police said a group of between 50 and 75 teenagers had allegedly thrown items at players, discharged flares and included multiple intoxicated patrons.

Police said the two people taken into custody were released at the venue a short time later. After the match, event management staff told spectators to clear the oval, and ACT Policing said all patrons left without further incident.

Marist College deputy principal Liam Stakelum told parents the conclusion of the game was “chaotic” and said those briefly detained were part of a group that had displayed poor behaviour throughout the match. He said the college kept its students at one end after quarter time to keep them away from potential risk.

An AFL spokesperson said player, official and spectator safety was of “paramount importance”. The league said it worked closely with ACT Policing, taking steps to contain the situation and ensure the match was conducted safely.