‘Time to Mature’: Lachie Neale Issues a Warning to ‘Cowardly’ Online Trolls Following ‘Horrific’ Abuse

Lachie Neale, co-captain of the Brisbane Lions, has bravely confronted “cowardly” online trolls through a recent post on his Instagram account.

This morning, Neale called out users who hurl abuse at AFL players, responding to the harassment athletes have faced.

The statement follows the Lions’ 52-point loss to the Magpies at the Gabba on Thursday night — marking their first defeat of the season against Craig McRae’s team.

In an Instagram story, Neale condemned the “horrific” abuse players face on social media.

He remarked, “Those hiding behind their keyboards to attack players are the biggest disgrace in society.”

“It’s gone beyond a joke now; the messages I’ve witnessed are some of the most appalling I’ve ever seen.

“It’s just a sport, grow up. Cowards.

“Have the courage to attach your name and face to your words.”

Teammate Charlie Cameron has shared Neale’s post in solidarity.

It is reported that Neale’s strong message was prompted by abuse directed at a specific player following the defeat to Collingwood, although further details on the incident are still unclear.

The club has publicly backed Neale’s stance against trolling, stating, “We acknowledge that a player has received some horrendous messages from online trolls after last night’s match.”

“Regrettably, this continues to be a recurring issue that players face, and we stand with them in addressing it. This matter has been officially reported.”

After previously leading the ladder unbeaten, the reigning champions have now dropped to a 5-1 record with other matches in round six yet to take place.

Earlier this week, Port Adelaide forward Willie Rioli took personal leave after encountering racial abuse in response to an Instagram story where he expressed disdain for Hawthorn.

Rioli returned to training on Wednesday as head coach Ken Hinkley condemned the “appalling” online abuse directed at him.