Football NSW Confronts Outrage Over Viral Stamp Incident in NPL Clash
A sickening off-the-ball stamp during a lower-grade football match in New South Wales has ignited widespread fury among fans, with many demanding heavy penalties for what they describe as a cowardly act. The ugly incident occurred during the opening-round NPL NSW clash between NWS Spirit and Sutherland Sharks, casting a dark shadow over the competition.
Details of the Controversial Tackle
Spirit forward Callum Kealy was sent off in the 69th minute after stamping on the ankle of Sharks defender Jamie Percevski. Footage of the challenge, which was posted on social media platform X, quickly went viral, amassing over three million views and thousands of angry reactions overnight. Kealy, who had already received a yellow card earlier in the match, was shown a second yellow by referee Hayden Langholz after appearing to strike Percevski from behind while the ball was nowhere near either player.
As Percevski crumpled to the turf, Kealy raised his hands in apparent protest, but replays of the incident sparked immediate outrage. The video captured a reckless and uncalled-for tackle that many argued crossed the line of acceptable physicality in the tough NPL environment.
Condemnation from Socceroos Legend Robbie Slater
Socceroos legend Robbie Slater led the condemnation, branding the act disgusting and anti-football. In a strong statement, Slater expressed his disgust, noting he had rarely seen anything worse in his career. He emphasized the venomous nature of the stamp, suggesting it could have ended Percevski's career and likening it to assault that would warrant arrest off the pitch.
Slater called for a suspension beyond the standard one-match ban for a second yellow card, arguing that Kealy should be banned for the rest of the season. He stressed that such actions show a lack of common decency and respect for fellow players, describing it as a cowardly act from behind where the victim could not protect himself.
Heated Online Reaction and Calls for Action
Online reaction was even more heated, with fans venting their anger across social media platforms. Many users called for a lifetime ban, describing the stamp as intentional and premeditated. Others demanded police intervention, suggesting the evidence be handed over for potential assault charges, with some even calling for the UK-born player to be deported.
Comments ranged from labeling Kealy a thug to insisting that players deserve better protection on the field. The controversy has placed significant pressure on Football NSW to take a strong stance, with many arguing that sanctions should extend beyond the game's disciplinary system.
Club Response and Ongoing Investigation
Spirit FC Chairman Frank Marchi released a statement confirming that Kealy had been stood down from all training and match participation while the matter is reviewed through the Football NSW judicial process. The club expressed its thoughts with Jamie Percevski and pledged full cooperation with the investigation.
Both Kealy and Percevski have locked down their social media platforms amidst the controversy, as Football NSW has launched an official investigation into the incident. The bitter edge to the match was heightened by the fact that Percevski played for Spirit last season before following former coach David Perkovic to Sutherland.
Despite being reduced to 10 men after Kealy's sending-off, Spirit went on to win the match 1–0. However, the victory has been overshadowed by the fallout from the stamp, leaving the football community grappling with issues of player safety and appropriate penalties in the sport.
