Football grinds to a halt, but not in Australia

Football might have ground to a halt across the world, but not in Australia where they are soldiering on, with a handful of fans turning up to cheer on their teams outside shuttered grounds this weekend.

The domestic A-League has six rounds to go and Football Federation Australia decided to press ahead without spectators amid the coronavirus pandemic, despite two of the 11 teams undergoing mandatory quarantine.

Like rugby league and Australian Rules, which are also pushing on with their seasons, it has lucrative broadcast commitments with the fear of financial repercussions part of the thinking.

In opting to keep going, Football Federation Australia head of leagues Greg O'Rourke said they were adhering to government directives and expert medical advice.

"We understand that these are difficult times for everyone," he said.

"We will always put the health, welfare and safety of our players, coaches, match officials, volunteers, administrators and fans at the centre of our decision-making process."
- Weird trip -
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"The weirdest away trip I've ever done," he said on social media. "The players after the game, they came up to me -- social distancing obviously, but massive thank you to them."
Fans were there in spirit though, with Sydney FC supporter club The Cove tweeting: "This one'll be different, but know that we are with you as always and forever have your back."