The goalkeeper crashed into a metal box as fans stormed the pitch during the Melbourne derby | world News

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An Australian soccer match had to be abandoned after fans invaded the pitch and a goalkeeper was hit in the face with a metal box.

The problem began in the 20th minute of Saturday’s Melbourne derby when the referee stopped play after throwing flares onto the pitch.

A video on social media appears to show Melbourne City goalkeeper Tom Glover throwing a flare into the stand of rival club Melbourne Victory behind him.

Within seconds, they charged the barricade and charged towards him, with the security unable to stop him from being struck with a metal box filled with white powder.

The video shows City players and Divers running to protect the goalkeeper while referee Alex King also hastily withdraws.

Former Manchester United player Nani was among the players forced off the pitch and looked stunned as he watched the clash.

Goalkeeper Glover was later pictured lying down when receiving medical attention in the dressing room and the club tweeted that he had a possible concussion.

The Australian Professional League said in a statement that the referee was also injured, but did not elaborate.

Football Australia, the game’s governing body, said the scenes at AAMI Park were “appalling” and warned of penalties.

She added, “Such behavior has no place in Australian football, with a full investigation into Australian football starting immediately, where heavy penalties will be imposed.”

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