Crowds Confirmed For Return Of Sporting Events In Melbourne

Melburnians could have a reason to cheer proudly this weekend, after the Victorian government confirmed limited capacity for both the A-League Grand Final and NBL Grand Final series - just as an announcement arrives for AFL's Friday night schedule.

Fans of Melbourne City FC will roar on their side at AAMI Park on Sunday, hosting Sydney FC with the stadium operating at 50 per cent capacity. Across the Olympic boulevard, 25,000 footy fans will flock into the MCG to view Richmond play St Kilda.

A crowd of 15,000 will attend the A-League decider, as City prepare to dethrone Sydney who are chasing a dominant third title in a row. 

A-League commissioner Greg O’Rourke spoke about the Victorian government’s approval, ensuring the game is played in Melbourne. 

“Together with all our stakeholders, we have been working through multiple scenarios to make sure we produce the best possible outcome for football and for the fans,” O’Rourke said.

“The evolving restrictions have presented ongoing challenges on every front - we need to keep everyone safe, to put on the best possible event, and we want to make sure that fans, players and clubs have the best possible experience.”

Also following strict COVID-19 restrictions, Melbourne United will host Perth Wildcats at John Caine Arena this Friday night, with the chance to seal the championship after winning two games interstate. 

Acting Premier James Merlino confirmed on Wednesday the Friday night NBL fixture will allow up to 5,000 fans to flock into watch United challenge for the title. 

The Wildcats have won four of the last five NBL titles and hope to keep the series alive with an away win. While United claimed the ultimate glory in 2018, coach Dean Vickerman aims to repeat their run with a consolidating performance in front of a limited crowd.

Catch up on the latest headlines on The Victoria Briefing. Available on LiSTNR.