West Coast gun Harley Reid fined $1000 over middle finger to Brisbane crowd
West Coast young gun Harley Reid has been fined $1000 for giving the crowd the middle finger during the final quarter of the Eagles’ loss to Brisbane at the Gabba on Sunday.
Reid was caught by cameras giving fans on the wing “the bird” after receiving a free kick late in the clash, with the AFL issuing a please explain.
It comes after the teenager was involved in some off-field banter with the Lions fans during the game, including after getting a free kick following an Oscar McInerney indiscretion.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“The AFL has fined West Coast’s Harley Reid $1,000 for misconduct during the Round 2 match against the Brisbane Lions,” the AFL released in a statement.
“After requesting a please explain and reviewing Reid’s submission, the AFL determined his actions during Sunday’s game warranted a financial sanction.”
A man was seen in the crowd waving tissues at Reid, who had several altercations during the match including a tussle with former Lions captain Dayne Zorko.
Speaking about Reid’s by-play with the fans — but not speaking specifically on the middle finger gesture — Eagles coach Andrew McQualter defended the young star.
“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.”
McQualter also praised the young Eagle who had 15 disposals, seven tackles and six clearances but also gave away seven free kicks in the game.
“I thought his response today, he played the right way,” he said.
“I thought he competed hard. He just kept competing and I thought he had some big influence on the game at different times today.
“Harley’s still learning the game, he’s still learning how to be the best footballer he can be and the best teammate he can be and we’re going to support him and work hard with him.”
Reid has come under scrutiny to start the year for his antics on the field ad his form struggles.
The No.1 draftee hit the ground running in his first year, averaging 19 disposals, five clearances and four tackles in his first season.
Originally published on The West Australian
