Sports · Football · 2 hrs ago

Fans boo Welcome to Country before Australia Cup final in Melbourne

Fans boo Welcome to Country before Australia Cup final in Melbourne

Sections of the crowd booed a Welcome to Country before Saturday night's Australia Cup final at AAMI Park in Melbourne.

Wurundjeri elder Uncle Colin Hunter Jr delivered the ceremony.

A Welcome to Country is a culturally significant practice that welcomes people and recognises Indigenous culture.

Anti-racism campaigners are calling on South Melbourne, Melbourne Victory and Football Australia to condemn the booing, apologise publicly and hold those responsible to account.

The Football Supporters Association Australia also condemned the behaviour.

The incident drew attention away from South Melbourne's historic win: it became the first NPL club to win the cup, beating Melbourne Victory 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw through extra time.

Campaigners are urging supporters to contact the clubs and Football Australia, which have been approached for comment.

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