Geelong star Bailey Smith has stated he feels “no remorse” for directing a double bird gesture at Crows fans following his team’s win to kick off the Gather Round in Adelaide.
Smith was instrumental in the Cats’ 18.11 (119) to 15.10 (100) victory over the home team, and a fan managed to capture the exact moment he made the gesture as the team exited the field.
On Friday morning, while he refrained from issuing an apology, Smith acknowledged it was a “poor representation”.
“It’s definitely a poor image – I apologise to the kids if they witness that type of behaviour,” he told 9News Adelaide.
Smith gestures at a fan following the Cats’ Gather Round victory over the Adelaide Crows. Supplied
“But it’s part of the game… you dish out banter, you’re liable to receive it back. I’ve had worse than just the two fingers from a Crows supporter,” he added.
Smith noted that he had already had a conversation with AFL football boss Laura Kane and that he anticipated facing some kind of penalty.
For context, West Coast player Harley Reid received a $1000 fine for a similar gesture towards fans during a match against the Lions earlier this year.
The 24-year-old revealed he couldn’t repeat the specific remark the fan made, but confirmed it was aimed at seasoned Cats captain Patrick Dangerfield.
Dangerfield and Smith walking off the field post-match.AFL Photos via Getty Images
“We’re clearly in enemy territory, but there’s only so much players can take when personal attacks are aimed at Danger,” he explained.
“If I had a chance to do it again… it’s not the best image for the sport, so I recognise that and know I need to improve on it.
“However, we need to support Danger. He has an image to maintain, and while he may not be able to react, I’m not a father; I don’t have three children depending on me as a role model.
“This is part and parcel of the game—some banter is exchanged, and we’re entitled to respond in kind at times. I enjoy it.
“It’s nothing too personal from my side.”
After missing all of the 2024 season due to an ACL injury, Smith hit the ground running upon his return to the Cats, averaging 30 disposals, 6.3 tackles, and 5.8 clearances per game this season.
Geelong coach Chris Scott expressed his surprise at how quickly Smith has regained form.
“We didn’t bring him on board expecting him to perform at peak level straightaway,” Scott said.
“We planned to allow him some space to find his rhythm after a year out with an ACL injury, but he’s been an incredible asset to us.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
