Brisbane Lions veteran Dayne Zorko has been fined $3,125 by the AFL following an incident in which he appeared to intentionally attack the face and glasses of Collingwood’s Mason Cox during Saturday night’s preliminary final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The incident occurred after Cox celebrated a goal by getting in Zorko’s face, prompting the Lions player to retaliate by grabbing at Cox’s face and removing his protective goggles.
The AFL’s decision to impose a fine rather than a suspension has sparked debate among fans and commentators. Calls for Zorko to be banned from the upcoming grand final were widespread, with many arguing that his actions warranted a harsher penalty. Despite this, the league opted for a financial penalty, reducing the fine from $5,000 to $3,125 due to an early guilty plea.
Historical Context and Safety Concerns
This incident is reminiscent of a similar occurrence in 2023 when Adelaide Crows player Ben Keays was fined $1,500 for a similar act against Cox. The American player wears protective goggles for safety reasons, having previously disclosed that he risks permanent blindness if he suffers a poke in the eye or a heavy knock.
In response to the Keays incident, former Collingwood president Eddie McGuire revealed that a memo had been circulated to all AFL clubs, emphasizing that such actions would not be tolerated. “Collingwood have spoken to the umpires,” McGuire stated. “The code of conduct forbids it, and there’s a memo that’s gone out. Everyone will be watching the umpires about the way they (opposition teams) go after Mason Cox.”
Reactions and Expert Opinions
Commentators and fans have expressed mixed reactions to the AFL’s decision. Channel 7 commentator Brian Taylor noted during the broadcast, “Zorko tried to take the glasses off. Look at that. He’s had a go at them and tried to peel them off.” Meanwhile, Luke Hodge argued that the incident should have resulted in a free kick for Collingwood and an additional shot at goal for Cox, equating the act to ripping off someone’s headband.
McGuire, who had previously criticized the treatment of Cox, reiterated his concerns about targeting players’ protective equipment.
“What would have happened if he had jumped up and poked him in the eye and he went blind? His career is over and he’s blind for life,” McGuire said. “Don’t go near people’s eyes is what I’m saying.”
Fan Outrage and Social Media Reactions
The incident has ignited a storm on social media, with fans voicing their opinions on the appropriate punishment for Zorko. One fan wrote, “Zorko should be suspended for that. Seriously.” Another commented, “That is farcical!!! Give him a week.” A third added, “People will laugh about this but messing with someone’s piece of protective equipment is gross. Zorko should and will be fined.”
Brisbane Lions’ Boost Ahead of Grand Final
In more positive news for the Brisbane Lions, star players Lachie Neale and Jarrod Berry have declared themselves fit for the grand final against Geelong. Neale, who has been recovering from a calf injury, reported successful completion of an intense training session. “I’ve ticked every box so far I’ve had to. I will train as normal next week,” Neale stated. “Hopefully Fages (coach Chris Fagan) picks me.”
Berry, dealing with a shoulder issue, expressed his readiness to play, stating he might not even require scans after another dislocation. Coach Chris Fagan indicated that the club’s medical team would make a “sensible” decision regarding Neale’s participation, noting, “If it’s too risky, it won’t happen.”
The Lions’ preparation for the grand final continues amidst the backdrop of Zorko’s fine and the team’s injury updates, setting the stage for an intense showdown against Geelong.
