More players charged in Australian football match-fixing investigation

Two other players could be involved in the Match-fixing case in Australian football This has already led to charges being brought against three Macarthur FC players.

Midfielder Kearyn Baccus appeared in court on Thursday to face charges related to an illegal betting scheme involving wagering on yellow cards at A-League matches.

He was arrested on May 17 along with team captain Ulises Davila and teammate Clayton Lewis. All three were released on bail and suspended by Football Australia under its conduct rules.

Documents presented to Campbelltown Local Court on Thursday reveal that two other players are accused of joining a criminal organisation.

Football Australia said in a statement that it was aware of the allegations, but added that one of the players whose identity was revealed was not a suspect in the case.

“Football Australia acknowledges the investigation into the possible involvement of other Macarthur FC players in the betting allegations…” the statement said. “It is important to note that (the player mentioned) is not considered a suspect and is not currently under investigation.”

“Football Australia takes these matters seriously and is committed to cooperating fully with the authorities.”

The New South Wales Police Special Organised Crime Unit, with the support of officers based in the UK, launched Strike Force Beaconview last December to investigate after suspicious betting-fixing patterns were uncovered.

Police had previously stated that a fourth Macarthur FC player was wanted for questioning but was not in the state of New South Wales at the time of the arrests.

The Australian Associated Press reported that Baccus did not say a word or provide any details about his plea during a brief mention of his case in court in Campbelltown, southwest Sydney.

His case has been adjourned until June 24, when he is due to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney.

Investigators allege that yellow cards, which are issued by referees as warnings for fouls or illegal play, were manipulated in games last November and December.

All three players accused received a yellow card in a match against Sydney FC on December 9.

Investigators also allege that there were unsuccessful attempts to do the same at the April 20 and May 4 games.

When the charges were brought, Deputy Chief Constable Michael Fitzgerald said the players had “abused the trust of their fans and the code of conduct”.

Macarthur FC has been competing in the Men’s A-League since the 2020/21 season. The league comprises 11 clubs based in Australia and one in New Zealand.

Macarthur finished fifth in the regular season.

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AP Football: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer