MORNINGTON Peninsula Football League manager Ian Benson has delivered a blunt warning to patrons attending the finals – behave yourselves or suffer the repercussions.

Police, in conjunction with the MPNFL and host clubs Pakenham and Berwick, will apply a zero tolerance policy to bad behaviour and alcohol abuse across the series, which kicks-off at Berwick on Saturday.

Offenders can expect to be dealt with.

“This is extremely important to the MPNFL and its member clubs,” Benson said. “We are well aware of the current media focus on our sport at this time of the year and the last thing we want is to become a target or example of what not to do.

“Police and security staff will be present at both venues and the clear direction will be to ensure a positive sporting atmosphere throughout the weekend.”

The start of finals always brings out new and or increased emotion within clubs and supporters.

Officials will ensure no alcohol is brought into venues and that alcohol purchased is consumed responsibly in the appropriate ‘wet’ areas at grounds by persons over the age of 18.

Benson said there would be no leeway given, because the MPNFL is intent on the Casey Cardinia League being represented as a safe, friendly, progressive and, most importantly, respected football competition.

A major change to the finals format is that the reserves start the day at 9.30am, followed by the under 18s at 11.45am and the seniors at 2pm.

The change has been designed to allow football fans the chance to watch the cream of the emerging local talent play before the main game - and also as a means of taking away the temptation of young followers of the under 18 sides consuming too much alcohol over a ‘long day’ at the football.

Benson said it was important to emphasise the league’s commitment to ensuring finals festivities were free of tension, aggravation and anti-social behaviour.

“Bad behaviour when representing a club, team, or as part of a club, will never go unnoticed,” he said. “Any verified incidents of anti-social behaviour confirmed to the MPNFL will be dealt with swiftly and appropriately, with a zero tolerance attitude.”