Pitch invader who almost ruined the best AFL game all year is caught celebrating afterwards with footy star - after fans spot dead giveaway in group photo

A pitch invader who disrupted the thrilling Collingwood-North Melbourne AFL game on Sunday was later seen celebrating with a Magpies star, sparking controversy on social media. 

The incident took place at Marvel Stadium during the thrilling Sunday clash where Collingwood staged a remarkable comeback to win 18.11 (119) to 19.4 (118) after trailing by 54 points early in the third quarter.

Footage revealed that the pitch invader was the brother of a Western Bulldogs AFL player Charlie Clarke and he was also spotted in a group photo with Collingwood defender Brayden Maynard after the match. 

Eagle-eyed footy fans noticed grass stains on the invader's left knee in the photo. He was also wearing the same clothes from the incident while fans were also able to match up his telltale tattoos on his left arm.

The invader is reported to be a friend of Maynard's. The AFL is aware of the incident and is investigating. 

Channel 7 footy reporter Tom Morris posted about the incident on social media platform X, stating, 'The AFL is aware of a pitch invader from the fourth quarter in yesterday's @NMFCOfficial v @CollingwoodFC game & is looking into it.'

'The maximum fine is $11k + the league can ban the patron, who is the brother of Dogs player Charlie Clarke & friends with Brayden Maynard.'

The AFL has yet to comment officially, but past statements highlight their stance on pitch invasions. 

'Running onto the ground during a match is not only senseless but it is unsafe and unlawful,' AFL general counsel Stephen Meade said in April. 

'If you choose to do it, then you will not only be given a significant fine but you will have to deal with local authorities and ultimately lose the privilege of attending AFL matches.'

This incident follows several similar occurrences this year. In Round 2, a fan invaded the field during the Crows versus Geelong game at Adelaide Oval, resulting in a life ban from attending AFL and AFLW matches. 

Additionally, two more pitch invaders were apprehended by MCG security during the Easter Monday game between Geelong and Hawthorn in April.

Following the match Maynard paid tribute to a 'good mate' who had recently passed away, following his team's stirring victory. 

Maynard, playing his 200th game, expressed his feelings during a post-match interview on Fox Footy.

'I'm really lost for words,' the 27-year-old began. 

'It probably wasn't our day; they brought the pressure, brought the heat, they had most of the game on their terms. To be able to fight back in Collingwood style, super proud of the boys.'

He acknowledged the significance of his milestone game but praised the team effort for coming home strongly and grabbing the thrilling victory. 

'Yes, it was a milestone for myself, but that is a team performance. Team first mentality. Such a good win, going to enjoy a beer tonight, that's for sure.'

Maynard, wearing a black armband, then shared the heartbreaking news about his friend.

'I absolutely love this club, I love these boys. I'm getting a little bit emotional because it's been a big couple of weeks for me. I had a good mate of mine pass away to mental health issues.'

He offered condolences to his friend's family. 

'So Deb, Amy, and Bomber, if you're watching this, my heart goes out to you and all your family. Much love from the Collingwood family and the whole AFL community, we're sending you all our love, endless amounts of hugs every day.'