The AFL world was left shocked after a vicious sledge from Brisbane Lions captain Dayne Zorko left Melbourne Demons star Harrison Petty in tears.
Now new details have emerged over the comment made during the three-quarter time break – and it's clear why Petty was so distraught.
The Herald Sun is reporting that Zorko’s sledge went along the lines of: “I hope your mother dies.”
Petty was understandably upset by the verbal slur with Demons head coach Simon Goodwin and a few backroom staff having to console the player.
Advert
The defender started on the interchange bench at the start of the fourth quarter in order to reset himself before he headed back onto the field.
The incident sparked a heated moment between Melbourne manager Alan Richardson and his Brisbane counterpart Danny Daly.
Zorko was also confronted by several Demons players at full-time, which seemingly led to the Lions player making his way over to Petty to apologise.
Goodwin confirmed the inappropriate sledge after the game, saying: “Petts thought he heard something inappropriate about a family member he was a bit upset about it.
Advert
“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 take them on their word.”
The Brisbane Lions released a statement on the incident saying Zorko had been ‘counselled by Lions senior management’ about his behaviour.
Advert
Zorko added: "I have apologised to Harrison for the inappropriate comment I made to him last night.
“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.”
The Melbourne Demons advised the AFL that they had accepted the apology and were happy to let the matter go, however, the AFL will continue to probe the incident.
Advert
There is a chance Zorko could face suspension under the AFL’s anti-vilification code.
Fans online weren’t too pleased with Zorko’s actions either.
One fan said: “Absolutely disgusting and extremely unbecoming of a leader of a football club. The Lions should strip him of his captaincy immediately.”
Whilst another commented: “Dayne Zorko cannot possibly captain Brisbane again after those alleged comments to Harrison Petty. Disgusting behaviour from a so-called leader of an ALF club.”
Featured Image Credit: 7AFL/Twitter.Topics: Australia, Australia Afl, Aussie Rules Football
