Police are urging fans to keep the rivalry family-friendly ahead of the A-League and ‘Big Bash’ Sydney derbies at Moore Park this weekend, NSW Police say.
Up to 80,000 people are expected to descend on the precinct when the Sydney Sixers take on Sydney Thunder tomorrow evening (14 January 2017) at the Sydney Cricket Ground, while Sydney FC will kick off against the Western Sydney Wanderers in neighbouring Allianz Stadium.
General Duties officers from across Central Metropolitan Region, will be assisted by specialist police to ensure the safety and security of all officials, players and spectators before, during and after the respective matches.
Gates open at the Sydney Cricket Ground from 1.30pm with the Women’s Big Bash League beginning from 1.45pm, and the main event taking place from 6pm.
Allianz Stadium will open its gates at 5.50pm with the game kicking off from 7.50pm, which is expected to finish shortly before 10pm.
NSW Police Corporate Spokesperson for Sporting Events and Venues, Acting Assistant Commissioner Peter Thurtell, urged fans to keep the rivalry family-friendly this weekend.
"We’re expecting large crowds at both events so we’re urging everyone to keep the rivalry friendly, look out for your mates, and don’t spoil the fun for others," Acting Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
"Police have been working closely with security officials, the FFA, Cricket Australia, and the relevant clubs to maintain a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved, including families.
"Those who choose to do the wrong thing will be dealt with swiftly – which may very well include criminal charges, fines, ejection from the ground and/or banning notices," Acting Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
"Anyone who brings flares into the precinct will automatically be banned from both Allianz Stadium, and the Sydney Cricket Ground. If you breach the FFA Spectator Code of Behaviour or risk the safety of other fans, players or officials – you could also face a significant ban from attending any matches.
"We want everyone to enjoy themselves and celebrate their competitive spirit, but we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour or any activity that disrupts the match for other spectators or jeopardises peoples’ safety."
Car spaces will be limited so fans are urged to leave the car at home and utilise the many public transport services available when making your way to the Moore Park precinct at the weekend.
"Officers from Police Transport Command will be involved in the police operation patrolling trains and buses to ensure everyone is travelling to and from Moore Park safely," Acting Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
"Football fans are also reminded that the A-League clash is an integrated ticketing event so travel via public transport to and from Allianz Stadium is included in the cost of your ticket.
"Ensure you keep your ticket safe for your journey home as you must have a valid ticket when travelling on public transport."
The closest train station to Moore Park is Central Railway Station, from which point you can utilise a shuttle bus to Allianz Stadium and the Sydney Cricket Ground. The buses will be departing regularly via Central or Circular Quay Railway Stations.
Visit www.transportnsw.info for the latest train, bus and ferry timetables, and to plan your route this weekend.
"If you must drive, please allow extra travel time and expect significant delays – particularly when leaving the precinct at the end of the night," Acting Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
"I’d also like to remind both drivers and pedestrians to please be aware of your surroundings, slow down as you make your way out of the area and only cross the roadway at designated traffic control points."
Special event clearways will be in place across various roads within Moore Park from midday tomorrow (14 January 2017).
Drivers are reminded to check signs carefully before parking as vehicles left in special event clearways will be towed and fines apply.
Further details regarding special event clearways and up-to-date traffic information is available via: www.livetraffic.com
Both A-League and ‘Big Bash’ spectators can access further information regarding ticketing, conditions of entry, and parking availability on the event website: http://www.sydneycricketground.com.au/events/all-events/
