Dayne Zorko apologises over sledge that left AFL youngster in tears
Brisbane captain Dayne Zorko has apologised for his comment to Harrison Petty that left the 22-year-old defender in tears during the Demons' 58-point win over the Lions.
Petty was visibly emotional during the three-quarter time break, spending some time off the field before returning late in Friday's game.
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The incident sparked a heated discussion between Melbourne football manager Alan Richardson and his Brisbane counterpart Danny Daly, before Zorko was confronted by several Demons at full-time.
In tough scenes, Petty was consoled by teammates and coaching staff after the comment made by Zorko.
Now, the Brisbane Lions captain has apologised for his comment and admitted he reached out to Petty in the aftermath.
"I have apologised to Harrison for the inappropriate comment I made to him last night," he said.
"I'm remorseful for my actions and take full responsibility for the hurt caused to Harrison, his family and the Melbourne Football Club.
"In reflection, I understand I need to be a better leader, and have spoken with the club who have reinforced this."
Demons general manager of football Richardson said the club was happy with Brisbane's response and were 'comfortable' with how it has been handled.
“Yeah, they are (involved). I’ve spoken to the AFL, my understanding is they’re pretty comfortable with where it sits,” Richardson said.
“I can’t speak for them but that’s certainly the tone that I got based on the fact that Dayne (Zorko) apologised and Harrison Petty is really comfortable with where it sits.
“As a footy club, we’re comfortable with where it sits now too."
Demons coach addresses alleged sledge from Zorko
Demons coach Simon Goodwin confirmed the incident was handed over to the AFL.
Goodwin said after the match that Zorko allegedly said a comment about Petty's family, which triggered the incident.
"Petts’ thought he heard something inappropriate about a family member he was a bit upset about it,” Goodwin said after the match.
“Brisbane have spoken to us and obviously the AFL will look at it. That’s pretty much the details we’ll give at the moment and we’ll just hand it over to the AFL.
“Petts was a bit emotional at three quarter-time. He went away, reset himself and came back into the game.
“Brisbane have been quite apologetic towards us and that’s the type of footy club they are. They’re a very respected humble footy club and we’ll taken them on their word.”
with AAP
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