AFL boss addresses radical solution to 'idiotic, crazy' fans

AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan has spoken about the possibility of segregating fans after admitting the “idiotic, crazy behaviour” that led to an ugly brawl on Saturday, needs to be addressed.

Shocking footage showed Geelong and Melbourne fans fighting on the stadium terrace immediately after the Cats won by two points on Saturday night.

A fan was also ejected from the ground after an incident at three-quarter time.

Unfortunately for the code and the Cats, the ugly scenes dominated the post-match discussions rather than Zach Tuohy’s goal after the siren that sealed an epic win for Geelong.

McLachlan has gone on the front foot to address the latest violence that has marred the code, but has stopped short of endorsing calls for an English Premier League-style segregation of supporters.

“(Segregation is) not happening,” McLachlan said on Triple M Melbourne’s Hot Breakfast radio programme.

“We have seven million people go to our game… everyone gets on famously.

“It’s a part of our game, sitting with opposition supporters, we’re able to do it the right way and have a great time.

“I’m incredibly proud generally that we can have such a highly supported, passionate game where people can go with supports of the opposition, and segregation is not happening.

“The issue here is individual accountability.

“It’s idiotic, crazy behaviour, and they need to be held to account.”

Geelong released a strong statement after their thrilling win, blasting the crowd violence that blighted the blockbuster against Melbourne at GMHBA Stadium.

“Football is an inclusive sport and every supporter that attends a game should be able to do so in a safe and enjoyable environment,” Geelong said in a statement.

“Violence has no place in society, let alone at a game of footy.

“We will work with all appropriate parties to review what occurred.

“Once this has been completed we will be able to determine if any action will be required by the club.”

Victoria Police have said they are investigating one assault allegation following the three-quarter time incident.

While the police are also aware of the post-game brawl, they said on Sunday that there had been no reports.

Demons legend Garry Lyon also weighed into the latest saga, demanding severe punishment for those found responsible.

“It makes me sick to the stomach when I see that,” Lyon told SEN Breakfast.

“I don’t know who’s to blame for Saturday night. I don’t know if it was Melbourne supporters or Geelong supporters, I’ve got no idea, but it’s embarrassing.

“Take their membership, chop it up, and suspend them for three years.

“We’re quick to jump on the soccer crowds when this happens, I tell you what it’s happening too regularly for my liking from an AFL perspective.

“Our own backyard looks decidedly grubby right now.

“I think we as an AFL community have taken a holier than thou attitude to sports events over the journey and now we’ve got to cop our right whack.”

With AAP