Football NSW hits Western Sydney Wanderers with fine and loss of points after NPL match incidents

Fans of the Western Sydney Wanderers have been banned from attending matches in the National Premier Leagues Men’s NSW competition for the rest of the season as part of a wide-ranging set of sanctions imposed on the club following incidents involving flares, fireworks and a pitch invasion at two separate matches in May.

Football NSW handed down its findings on Tuesday after an investigation into the conduct of supporters of the club’s NPL Academy team at the two NPL Men's NSW matches, an away fixture against Sydney United 58 on 5th May and a home clash against Sydney Olympic a week later.

Football NSW released a statement on Tuesday that listed there'd been an 'extensive investigation' into alleged breaches of the 2024 FNSW Grievance and Disciplinary Regulations relating to the two matches.

The Wanderers pleaded guilty to all charges and accepted the sanctions which included a $33,500 fine, loss of six premiership points in the 2024 season and ban on fans.

An additional loss of six premiership points for the 2024, 2025 and 2026 season were included, although these are suspended.

Football NSW advised that Wanderers remaining NPL Men's NSW home matches will be played under “restricted entry” conditions and during daylight.

Attendance at away fixture for Wanderers will be limited to nomination officials, parents/family members of players (maximum two per player), committee members and club guests.

In a statement, Football NSW advised that the punishment reflected their “commitment to the safety of all participants” while acknowledging the club’s cooperation with their investigation.

Wanderers’ Academy teams were established in 2013.

Image: Western Sydney Wanderers fans invade the pitch on 11th May. Credit: Football NSW.