An AFL fan who leaned over the fence and touched Richmond participant Marlion Pickett has been banned by the league for the remainder of the season.
Just earlier than three-quarter-time in final Friday night time’s match, Pickett chased Bulldogs celebrity Marcus Bontempelli into the Tigers’ back-line and ran in the direction of the fence.
A fan within the crowd reached over the fence and mockingly put a hand on Pickett’s shoulder.
The Richmond premiership utility circled and knocked a drink out of the supporter’s hand.
As quickly because the siren sounded at three-quarter-time, Pickett made a beeline in the direction of the identical part of the gang the place the incident occurred and briefly interacted with a safety guard.
The 31-year-old had an extended dialog with Richmond soccer boss Tim Livingstone earlier than the ultimate quarter started, which Pickett began sitting on the bench.
The incident sparked an AFL investigation, with the league reviewing safety footage and tracing the fan’s particulars from the areas of his seats.
On Monday, the AFL stated the fan was not a league or membership member.
“We want everyone who comes to the footy to cheer for their team and enjoy the experience of being there, but when you overstep the boundaries, which is what happened on Friday night, then you will lose the privilege of being able to attend the footy,” AFL govt Kylie Rogers stated.
“Our clear message is this – we love the interactions between players and fans especially in the precious moments pre and post-game – however what we saw on Friday night during the match is not acceptable and never will be.”
After Friday night time’s match, Richmond interim coach Andrew McQualter stated it was “disappointing” the incident occurred.
“We love fans in our game, and they’re so critical to our game, but our players should never ever be touched when they’re on the football field,” McQualter stated.
In 2018, an Adelaide supporter was banned from attending video games at Adelaide Oval for the remainder of that season after reaching over the fence and touching Bulldogs captain Easton Wood on the bottom.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
