The finals series may only be a week old, but there’s already been some chaos in the Albury Wodonga Football Association postseason.
Cobram Roar have been disqualified from the division one and two men’s finals series following a review of player eligibility, AWFA confirmed in a press release issued on Tuesday, 26 August.
The release cites two breaches of minimum match requirements for finals as outlined in their rules and regulation for the 2025 season.
Rule 4.5.1 states a player must have played a total of five games in Division 1 Men during the regular season to be eligible for Division 1 Men’s Cup games.
Rule 4.12.2 states a player must have played a total of five game in Over 35 Men during the regular season to be eligible for Over 35 Men’s Cup games.
“As a result, Cobram Roar have been disqualified from the Division 1 Men’s and Division 2 Men’s Finals series,” the release reads.
“The match results have been overturned, and Albury United have been awarded the win in both divisions and will progress to the next stage of the competition.
“The AWFA acknowledges and commends Cobram Roar for the professional and respectful manner in which they have responded to this matter.
“Their cooperation throughout this difficult process demonstrated integrity and a commitment to the values of our football community.
“The AWFA remain committed to upholding the integrity of its competitions and ensuring fair play across all divisions.”
In a statement released on their Facebook page, Cobram Roar denies any intentional or wilful breach of rules, putting the infringement down to "a misinterpretation of a critical rule".
Wangaratta City will now face Albury United in the division two men’s semi-final on Saturday, 30 August at Savoy Park at 4pm.
The AWFA finals series continue this weekend across Saturday and Sunday.
