POLICE have charged North Melbourne great Glenn Archer with unlawful assault over an alleged attack on a runner at a junior game on Sunday.

The incident, which led to the 44-year-old jumping the fence, occured at an under 15s game between Banyule and Park Orchards. Archer’s son plays for Park Orchards.

The Shinboner of the century, who is due to appear in Heidelberg Magistrates court on September 1, released an apology via the Kangaroos on Monday morning after he was bailed.

“I would like to apologise unreservedly for my involvement in what transpired at a junior football match in Heidelberg on Sunday,” Archer said.

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“Jumping the fence to defend a player was inappropriate and unacceptable.

“The incident that occurred several minutes later with the opposition team’s runner was also unfortunate.

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“I would like to reinforce that under no circumstances should spectators or parents intervene in any on-field matters with players or officials, at any level.

“I regret my initial decision to enter the field of play and acknowledge it was wrong.

“I will fully cooperate with the Yarra Junior Football League if it investigates the matter further.”

Unlawful assault (or common assault) is the least serious of the assault offences and jurisdiction lies with the Magistrates Court.

The maximum penalty is three months imprisonment, but if found guilty Archer could also be fined or ordered to undertake voluntary work in the community.

Archer is a North Melbourne board member and played 311 games for the club from 1992-2007.