The Australian Football League (AFL) has issued a “please explain” notice to the West Coast Eagles regarding an incident involving young midfielder Harley Reid. During Sunday’s match against the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba, Reid was seen raising his middle finger towards the crowd in response to off-ball banter.
The incident occurred in the final quarter when Reid won a free kick on center wing after Oscar McInerney committed an indiscretion. As the Eagles took the downfield free kick, Reid stood up and raised his middle finger, eliciting a reaction from the crowd. One spectator was seen standing and booing Reid, while another approached the fence and offered him tissues.
The AFL has requested further context from the Eagles regarding the incident, with an outcome expected in the coming days. Eagles coach Andrew McQualter did not directly address Reid’s gesture but supported his player’s interaction with Lions veteran Dayne Zorko and the crowd.
“We try to bash the theatre out of this game sometimes, don’t we?” McQualter said post-match. “He’s just having a bit of fun. Sometimes that’s good for the game, I think.”
Reid had an influential game, collecting 15 disposals, including six clearances and seven tackles. McQualter praised Reid’s performance, saying, “I thought his response today, he played the right way. I thought he competed hard. He just kept competing, and I thought he had some big influence on the game at different times today.”
The incident has sparked debate about player behavior and the role of the AFL in regulating on-field conduct. While some have criticized Reid’s actions, others have defended his right to respond to crowd abuse.
As the AFL investigates the incident, Reid’s future actions will be closely scrutinized. The young midfielder has already shown promise in his early career, and his coach’s support suggests that he will continue to play an important role for the Eagles.
The AFL’s response to the incident will be closely watched, as it seeks to balance player expression with the need to maintain a respectful and family-friendly environment at games.