By CAMERON LUCADOU-WELLS
DANDENONG Thunder Soccer Club has lodged an appeal against a $40,000 fine and 10-home game lockout that it says could wipe it out of existence.
The club had been sanctioned for misconduct after two young female spectators were injured by a rocket flare fired by a Thunder supporter at last month’s Victorian Premier League grand final.
The appeal, lodged yesterday, will be heard by a Football Federation Victoria-appointed appeals board on November 28.
Spokesman Ronnie Mustafai said the club would implore the appeals board to reduce the number of home-game lockouts.
The 10 games, which would be closed to spectators, would cost the club up to $100,000 in lost gate, food and drinks revenue. On top of that, the club stands to lose players, members and sponsors.
‘‘It could definitely spell the end of the club,’’ Mustafai said.
‘‘If we can reduce the penalty, we can stay alive next year.’’
A FFV spokesman said the federation would not comment until after the appeal.
