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'Train wreck': Gillon McLachlan slammed over 'embarrassing' press conference

Yahoo Sport Australia

Gillon McLachlan has angered the AFL world with a press conference in which he attempted to address a number of issues plaguing the game.

The AFL chief executive on Tuesday said he's devastated that some fans feel uncomfortable amid a perceived security crackdown at venues.

McLachlan again denied ordering a greater security focus on crowd behaviour but concedes fans believe otherwise.

"It's devastating to think that our fans think something has changed to limit their enjoyment at the footy," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"Our philosophy on this has not changed: we want our fans to come to the footy and be themselves and feel safe in barracking.

Gillon McLachlan speaks to the media. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Media/Getty Images)
Gillon McLachlan speaks to the media. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Media/Getty Images)

"Our supporters should never feel that security staff are there for any other reason than to ensure a safe day at the footy."

Marvel Stadium management have said they went too far with a heightened level of security at games at the venue at the weekend.

"There is a view in the last week or so the measures that have been taken are too dramatic," McLachlan said.

“I don't want to apportion blame ... some of the measures have meant that people have felt uncomfortable."

He also criticised Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett but the Hawthorn president will not be punished for questioning whether security staff were ‘new arrivals’ to Australia.

McLachlan’s presser was widely panned, with fans and pundits left unsatisfied by his responses.

Here’s what they had to say:

with AAP