William Pickett, 28, of Griffith Street, Heywood, is contesting in the Warrnambool Magistrates Court one charge of recklessly causing injury.

He is accused of striking then 17-year-old Sam Lambevski during a match between Heathmere and Branxholme-Wallacedale on July 28 last year.

Lambevski, now 18, suffered a broken jaw and cheekbone.

Lawyer Michael Kats made a 'no case' submission on Wednesday, stating the prosecution had failed to disprove that Pickett had acted in self-defence.

He also said there was insufficient evidence his client caused an injury to Lambevski, as opposed to the victim being injured during a separate melee.

But, after consideration, magistrate Mark Stratmann said the accused had a case to answer.

Mr Kats will call three witnesses when the hearing resumes in Portland Magistrates Court on October 29.

A fourth defence witness, a spectator, was dismissed after she failed to abide by a court order to remain outside during the proceedings.

READ more: Man who broke teen footballer's jaw says 'no malice intended'

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