The AFL's gut feel to Neale's gut punch leaves fans dazed and confused

The gut feeling displayed by the AFL in its decision regarding Lachie Neale's eligibility for the grand final left fans bewildered and perplexed. Neale, a Brisbane Lions superstar, was granted permission to play despite his team's argument that he was as deserving of the tribunal's compassionate provision as Scott Pendlebury had been.

Pendlebury, on the other hand, had avoided suspension due to his exceptional circumstances. The AFL's decision was inconsistent, akin to FIFA allowing a player to play despite receiving a red card in his previous match. The decision also echoed the popgun-like approach the AFL had taken all season, suspending players for such actions but ultimately failing to do so when it mattered most.

Neale's case was particularly perplexing, as he had committed a deliberate and behind-the-play incident, had been fined multiple times for similar actions, and had fewer games under his belt than Pendlebury. The nine players who faced suspension this year for comparable offenses now question the AFL's commitment to enforcing body strikes behind play.

The decision has left fans divided, with some believing Neale should be free to play and others questioning the AFL's seriousness in enforcing rules. The AFL's ultimate decision has created a situation where the outcome of the grand final may be bittersweet for Fremantle players, who now must navigate the complex aftermath of Neale's eligibility.