Following an Independent Tribunal hearing on Tuesday evening, Football Victoria (FV) can confirm the sanctions imposed on Preston Lions FC (PLFC) in relation to incidents surrounding its NPL Victoria Men’s fixture on Saturday, 18 July.
The Tribunal determined the following sanctions:
- A three-point deduction for the 2026 season, activated from the suspended three-point penalty from 2025.
- A further suspended six-point deduction, in place until the commencement of the 2028 season, to be activated should the club receive a further MP10 sanction in FV administered competitions during that period.
- A fine of 150 Penalty Units ($16,500) in relation to the MP10 breach and 15 Penalty Units ($1,650) in relation to the MP5D breach.
- Restrictions on Preston Lions supporters attending away fixtures next season, with attendance limited to registered club members who present photo identification. PLFC will be responsible for managing and ensuring compliance with these restrictions.
The three-point deduction and fines will be enforced at the conclusion of the appeal window on Wednesday, August 26.
The Tribunal’s sanctions are in addition to those announced last week, relating to the club being issued its second strike under FV's Three Strike Policy.
Sanctions of this nature serve as an important reminder that the actions of supporters can have serious consequences for the clubs they represent, with impacts extending to players, officials, members and the broader community.
While these consequences can be challenging, we all share a responsibility to uphold the standards that help ensure football environments remain safe, respectful and welcoming for everyone.