FFA fines Neville $1000 for rude gesture

Oct 25, 2016 - 6:47 AM Western Sydney defender Scott Neville has been slapped with a $1000 fine for making an offensive gesture towards Adelaide fans after their round-two A-League victory.

Neville was seen showing his middle finger to a group Reds supporters at Coopers Stadium following Brendon Santalab's stoppage-time winner 10 days ago.

He also appeared to yell something in the direction of the crowd.

Football Federation Australia (FFA) found the 27-year-old full-back's behaviour breached the organisation's National Code of Conduct.

FFA took into account Neville's remorse in keeping his sanction at a reprimand and fine, though warned any further misbehaviour would leave him at risk of more severe punishment.

It's not the first time a Wanderers player has been caught making an offensive gesture to fans.

Mitch Nichols was also fined $1000 last season for his two-fingered salute at Brisbane supporters in the club's epic semi-final win.

Tony Popovic's side have had a mixed start to the season, sitting sixth with four points from a possible nine and they blew a 2-0 lead to draw with Newcastle on Sunday.

Winger Steven Lustica insisted no individual player would be hung out to dry for the capitulation but said the entire group felt as if they'd suffered a defeat.

"We were dominating the game and we let that slip," he said.

In one positive, Lustica said the pitch at new temporary home ground Spotless Stadium was one of the best the team has played on.

And the Wanderers will have the perfect opportunity to bounce back against strugglers Central Coast when they return to the venue on Saturday night.

"It's great we've got another home game and we're looking forward to another good turnout from our fans," Lustica said.

"The Mariners lost last week so they'll be motivated to come out and try and put some pressure on us."

Source: AAP