NFL fans took to social media in a frenzy during the bizarre scene that unfolded on the field. That’s what nearly happened between the Brisbane Lions and Sydney Swans on Saturday. During that first quarter’s final minute, Swans defender Nick Blakey landed one of the best marks in AFL history. He was chased down hard by Lions all star Jarryd Smith and hit the pavement with a hard landing. As Blakey went down, Smith’s cleat brushed against the back of Blakey’s leg, which caused Blakey to kick back in response.
52 Witnesses further testified that while on the ground, Blakey attempted to get up/survive and pushed Smith off. In dramatic, shocking fashion, Blakey then almost immediately extended his leg and kicked Smith square in the rear end. This unprecedented moment of physical intimacy disarmed observers and spectators alike. It ignited discussions about what is acceptable behavior on the pitch.
The AFL ran an independent inquiry into the incident, which involved hearings with both players and their clubs. In the end, the league decided that a private reprimand was sufficient.
The AFL Integrity Unit has launched an investigation over an incident that took place during the Brisbane Lions and Sydney Swans match on Saturday. A representative from the AFL said that, “No action needed.”
In response to media and public uproar, the Sydney Swans specifically highlighted that there were no complaints from either the club or Blakey about the incident. Indeed, they emphasized the extent to which both sides were happy with the results.
Football commentator and former Port Adelaide powerhouse Kane Cornes could hardly believe the AFL would choose not to follow through on the revelation.
“I just can’t believe that the AFL would review that and decide there’s no case to answer,” he said. “It didn’t look like an accident.”
Mitch Cleary reported on the developing story and reaffirmed that players and clubs were consulted. To be clear, he said, no action would follow.
“The players and clubs have learnt their lesson following discussions today, and no further action will be necessary,” Cleary said.
Unfortunately, the match broadcast never showed the reverse angle of the incident, which would have provided significant context. As a consequence, many field-level observers are now in the dark about what actually transpired during that historic on-field moment.
