POLICE have arrested a country footballer who fled his match at halftime on the weekend to avoid arrest.

Jarrah Maksymow, 26, was wanted on charges of assault, break-and-enter and driving offences.

For operational purposes, police had agreed to allow Maksymow — who was playing for Henty in their semi-final clash against the Brock-Burrum Saints in the Hume league on Saturday — to play out the match before issuing the arrest.

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But the 26-year-old took advantage of the police’s good grace, fleeing the game at halftime.

Maksymow, the former Bacchus Marsh and North Albury star midfielder, was arrested on Monday at a home in Wodonga.

Henty coach Joel Price admitted Maksymow’s quick exit was a distraction during his side’s 33-point loss.

Maksymow was one of the best players on the ground in the first half before making a break for freedom.

Henty was left a player short in the second half due to Maksymow’s departure.

Police requested assistance in locating the fugitive, but the public were urged not to approach him.

“For operational reasons, an arrangement was made to arrest the man at the end of the game,’’ a NSW police spokesperson said.

“However, he left the scene prior to the match finishing.

“Inquiries are continuing.”

Fairfax Media reports the decision to not arrest Maksymow at the footy ground will be reviewed by police management.