The A-League Men Melbourne derby has been brought to a dramatic halt after fan protests turned into a pitch invasion, in one of the ugliest scenes in the competition’s history.

Fans from the Melbourne Victory active area rushed the pitch just after the 20-minute mark of Saturday night’s game at AAMI Park and Melbourne City goalkeeper Tom Glover was left with a cut head and a suspected concussion after someone threw a metal bucket.

Both sets of fans had been throwing flares on the pitch but the situation escalated when a flare appeared to hit a Channel 10 cameraman, then exploded when Glover picked another off the ground and threw it back into the stands.

Fans then rushed the pitch and Glover was struck by the metal bucket, which is used to dispose of flares, and immediately started bleeding from his temple, requiring medical assistance.

Both sets of players were quickly rushed down the tunnel and the game was paused.

There had been a tense atmosphere throughout the start to the game with both sets of active fans planning to depart the game at the 20-minute mark as part of a protest towards the Australian Professional Leagues.

Fans across the competition were protesting the league’s decision to sell the next three grand finals to Sydney.

Both sets of fans started “f*** the APL” chants immediately after the preceding A-League Women’s game finished.

Victory and City fans each unfurled banners pre-game and as the half unfolded, referencing their displeasure with the APL.

Victory fans let off small fireworks then flares, while their goalkeeper Paul Izzo had to help dispose of flares thrown by City fans.

Then the game descended into chaos.

City led 1-0 when the game stopped, courtesy of Aiden O’Neill’s goal in the 11th minute.