A late-night joyride across a local football field has earned one driver the title of “Idiot of the Week” after police allegedly tracked down the offender with remarkable ease.

East Maitland’s Shamrock Oval was left damaged over the long weekend after a vehicle allegedly gained access to the field through an emergency gate and was driven across the recently laid playing surface.

The soft, wet turf suffered damage just weeks after improvement works were completed, leaving club officials frustrated and concerned about the impact on local junior football players.

According to the club, CCTV footage and information provided by a committee member helped police identify the alleged offender, who was subsequently located and charged.

In what can only be described as an own goal, the driver allegedly left the vehicle parked at the oval after the incident, providing authorities with a significant clue during their investigation.

Club representatives said they were disappointed by the apparent disregard for community property, particularly given the impact the damage could have on children eager to get back onto the field following a season already plagued by wet weather and washouts.

The club will now work with Maitland City Council to assess the damage and restore the playing surface as quickly as possible.

Despite the setback, volunteers and committee members remain determined to ensure local players are back on the field as soon as possible.