Dozens of seagulls disrupt Melbourne Victory v Newcastle Jets 2-2 draw | OneFootball

The A-League meeting between Melbourne Victory and Newcastle Jets finished 2-2, yet the closing minutes were dominated by an unlikely seagull invasion that unsettled players without stopping play.

According to L'Équipe, late in the regular season and as stoppage time began with a dangerous free-kick for Newcastle, dozens of birds settled on the turf or skimmed the grass, creating a surreal backdrop.

Despite the mass of birds, the referee kept the game going. Players tried to negotiate the set piece, some lifting at the last second as the ball passed, and Newcastle almost scored.

The spectacle startled supporters and video clips spread rapidly on social media. In Melbourne, seagulls are a familiar presence around sporting venues.

The outcome, coupled with Auckland’s poor result, ensures Newcastle Jets will finish top of the regular season and contest the play-off semi-finals.

Victory remain sixth with 37 points from 25 matches, a position that would secure a play-off quarter-final.

Source: L'Équipe