Petrie no fan of Roo cull critics’ backlash
NORTH Melbourne forward Drew Petrie says any Kangaroos supporters planning protests over the culling of the club’s veterans at tonight’s clash against Greater Western Sydney should “hang their heads in shame”.
Breaking his silence after he was told this week he would not be offered a new contract for 2017, along with Brent Harvey, Nick Dal Santo and Michael Firrito, Petrie said he had been disappointed with the backlash against coach Brad Scott and the “poor” reaction from the Roos’ faithful.
While Petrie admitted the news that this would be his last season at Arden St had not fully sunk in yet, he said he accepted Scott’s decision and did not want to stand in the way of the club’s future.
Some North fans did not take the news well this week, however, with supporters setting up a “Save Boomer Harvey” page on social media and calling for a protest outside Etihad Stadium before tonight’s match.
“The backlash from some small pockets of North Melbourne people has been poor and I’m really disappointed that’s the case,’’ Petrie said.
“I hope that North Melbourne fans will get out and support this footy club and support Brad and support all the players because it was a tough decision to be made, but he has got the best interests of the club at heart for now and planning for the future.
“I’ve heard a few whispers about bits and pieces that might go on. That would be the minority, 99 per cent of North fans are rippers. We had a great turnout at training and those small pockets can hang their heads in shame if they decide to behave like they do tomorrow night.’’
While Petrie said his body felt good enough to continue, he said he was happy to step aside for the good of the club.
“This is my 16th season, so I knew that it was going to be sooner rather than later,’’ he said.
“I feel for Mick Firrito and Nick Dal Santo as well, we’re all in the same boat here, there comes a time for everyone to move on.”