Westfield FFA Cup entrant St Albans Saints will go into their Round of 16 clash against Perth Glory minus their head coach and one of their midfielders after the pair were stood down by the club.
The Victorian NPL 1 club took the extraordinary measure following an incident at its Round 23 league match against Richmond SC involving coach Toby Paterson and his son, midfielder Brodie Paterson. Furthermore, Assistant Coach Steve Laurie has also given up his post.
The club announced the news via an official statement which read, “Senior team coach Toby Paterson and midfielder Brodie Paterson have parted ways with St Albans Saints because of the incident that took place after our Round 23 match against Richmond on Sunday. The club must abide by its ‘Code of Behaviour’ policy that applies to supporters, players and officials alike. Regretfully, assistant coach Steve Laurie has decided to leave the club also.”
It is drama the Saints undoubtedly did not need less than a fortnight out from their Westfield FFA Cup match against Hyundai A-League opposition at Knights Stadium on September 23.
The statement also suggested that captain Ryan McGuffie may take over the reins for the rest of the season, including the encounter against Perth Glory.
