Shouldn’t Be Tolerated”: Outrage Follows Lachie Neale’s On-Field Act Caught on Camera
A fresh wave of controversy has swept through the AFL community after Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale was filmed committing what many are calling a “cheap shot” during a recent match — sparking outrage among fans, commentators, and former players alike.
The footage, taken during a high-stakes weekend clash, shows Neale — a two-time Brownlow Medal winner — apparently pulling at an opponent’s arm before landing a subtle, intentional jab to the ribs, away from the view of officials.
Social Media Backlash
The clip quickly went viral online, igniting heated debates among AFL supporters. Some argued that it was typical rough-and-tumble footy, but others labelled it unacceptable.
“You can’t let this slide. It’s not the example a star should be setting,” one supporter posted on X.
Another wrote: “If that doesn’t lead to punishment, the AFL has completely lost it.”
Expert Opinions Pour In
Renowned AFL pundit Kane Cornes addressed the issue on live TV, stating:
“Lachie Neale is a champion of the game, but there’s no excuse for that kind of play. The league has made it clear that this kind of behaviour isn’t okay.”
Others in the AFL community agreed, with a former team captain telling SEN Radio:
“We were always told to play hard but fair. That crosses the line — it’s deliberate and unnecessary.”
AFL’s Next Move
As of now, the AFL Match Review Officer (MRO) has yet to release a decision. Should the act be deemed intentional with low impact, Neale could be hit with a monetary fine or a possible one-game ban.
The Brisbane Lions have not issued a statement, and Neale declined to comment in depth, only saying post-match that he was committed to “playing tough, team-first footy.”
A Reputation Under Scrutiny
Neale has long been admired for his tenacity, leadership, and skill. However, this incident has cast a shadow over his image — showing how quickly a player’s reputation can be tested in the spotlight of today’s game.
With every move now under the microscope in the digital age, moments like this are rarely overlooked.
Bigger Picture: Where’s the Line?
The episode also revives a bigger AFL debate — what level of physicality is still acceptable in the modern game? As the league focuses more on player safety and image, the balance between hard play and foul play remains a central issue.
Regardless of whether Neale is penalised, the uproar makes one thing clear: AFL fans are demanding more accountability from the sport’s biggest names — not just in performance, but in conduct.
