The result of the game has been reinstated to 1-1 after the tribunal's decision.

The tribunal found that approximately 20 to 40 South Melbourne fans invaded the playing field, bringing disruption to the game after midfielder Carl Recchia scored a 91st minute equalizer.

Most the supporters came from the "Clarendon corner" of the ground where there was no security.

The invasion was not confined to that area, although some fans did remain there.

Some ran across the entire playing field while others decided to abuse Heidelberg goalkeeper Steve Tiloveski.

The tribunal found the referee was correct to abandon the game as there "was potential for a riot."

The Appeals Board found: "We find that the incident was likely to and did bring the sport of football into disrepute. We further find that South Melbourne failed to control its supporters and failed to provide an appropriate number of marshals, especially in the area which is a known trouble spot. We find that the Heidelberg players were vilified and placed in a situation of danger."

 

South appealed to overturn penalties against three fans and was successful with the tribunal finding the initial findings were harsh.

The loss of points will send South Melbourne to seventh on the table while Heidelberg drops back down to the bottom.

The club has signalled an intention to appeal the penalties.