Tigers boss defends players involved in nightclub brawl

They were among a large group of AFL players from several clubs celebrating the birthday of Bolton’s partner.

Gale said yesterday the Tigers would have preferred the players had walked away from the confrontation.

“We are disappointed they found themselves in that position but we fully understand and support what they have provided and to intervene into what was deemed by those guys as inappropriate conduct,” he said.

Gale told SEN that the club had a “pretty strong culture here based on care and connection and looking after each other”.

“We’d prefer they didn’t (intervene), but that’s sometimes easier said than done,” he said.

“That required responding to conduct which they thought was absolutely inappropriate.

“They took the steps to address that. There’s probably a range of options the players could have undertaken; simply walk away.

“We also understand that sometimes that’s very difficult. They won’t be punished.

“Sometimes it’s hard to put an old head on young shoulders.”

Richmond does not have a curfew for players, with the club adamant the pair were not under the influence of alcohol.

Former player Gale said turning a blind eye was difficult for players given they were trying to support each other.

“I’m encouraged by the fact they’re looking after each other, they’re looking after their partners, they’re looking after their friends and I’m encouraged by that,” he said.

“It’s regrettable that they found themselves in that position and I reckon the appropriate step, but the very difficult step, would be to simply turn a blind eye and walk away and that’s the environment we live in unfortunately with some of these high-profile athletes.”