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The AFL announced on Friday afternoon that in the wake of Adelaide Crows’ head coach Phil Walsh’s tragic passing, Sunday afternoon’s match between Adelaide and the Geelong Cats will not go ahead.
AFL Chief Executive, Gillon McLachlan, made the announcement, stating it was not fair to ask the young men of the Adelaide Crows or the Geelong Cats to play under the circumstances.
“Today, I have spoken with many people in the industry, briefed all our club CEOs and presidents and the AFL Commission. There have been discussions about the game on Sunday and even about the round.
“We have decided that the game on Sunday between Adelaide and Geelong will not go ahead.
“This is a decision of the competition as a remark of respect to Phil Walsh. It is our decision, because while playing footy can be part of the grieving process, we are strongly of the view that it is not fair to ask the young men of the Adelaide Crows or the Geelong Cats to play in these circumstances.”
At a statement made at club headquarters in Adelaide, Crows Chairman Rob Chapman said football was secondary at this difficult time.
“Phil was a great bloke and the outpouring of support and condolences we’ve seen right across the country today is testament to his profound impact on the game over a long period of time,” Chapman said.
“In the tragic circumstances, the welfare of Meredith, her family and our people is paramount. Through these difficult days, the Adelaide Football Club family will stick together and support each other unconditionally.
“We believe the AFL has made the right decision for the football community.
“We’d also like to thank the Geelong Football Club for their understanding and support of this decision.”
The premiership points on offer for the match will be shared, with each side gaining 2-points.
The remaining seven games for Round 14 will go ahead as scheduled.
A minute silence will be held before the first bounce of Collingwood and Hawthorn’s clash at the MCG on Friday night.
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