Petracca Admits He Was 'Too Passionate' in Lombard Blow-Up, Lyon Calls Out 'Disrespect'

Norm Smith medallist Christian Petracca has acknowledged he was 'a bit too passionate' during a heated exchange with Gold Coast Suns teammate Leo Lombard in the loss to Carlton, as Melbourne great Garry Lyon criticised the 19-year-old's response as lacking 'respect'.

What happened between Petracca and Lombard?

The incident occurred in a crucial late moment of the Suns' defeat, when Lombard jumped in front of Petracca to grab a clearance during a set play. Petracca confronted the young midfielder with strong words, and Lombard was seen telling his experienced teammate to 'f*** off'.

Petracca's reflection on the exchange

Speaking with Code Sports' Jon Ralph on Monday, Petracca said he was too aggressive when speaking with Lombard, whom he considers his 'little brother'.

'I think for me reflecting on that moment I was probably a bit too passionate with my feedback. Obviously it was the fourth quarter, the heat of the moment, and we were losing at the time. I should have said it in a more constructive way. That can be difficult during the game but I have got nothing but love for Leo. He's like a little brother to me.'

Petracca emphasised that the team holds each other to high standards and that as a leader, he needs to keep improving how he delivers feedback.

Garry Lyon's perspective

Speaking on AFL 360, Demons champion Lyon did not believe Petracca did much wrong, suggesting the frustration may have been justified.

'I wouldn't be too apologetic if I'm Christian Petracca. This is a footy club that's not tip-toeing around trying to set a standard. The comeback from Leo Lombard wouldn't wash back in the day; I suspect this is a change in the attitude of the young of today, which is just life. Respect. I'm just old school.'

Lyon added that Lombard would have faced physical consequences at training in previous eras for speaking to a four-time All-Australian and Norm Smith medallist in that manner.

Could the incident help the Suns grow?

Petracca believes the exchange could ultimately benefit the club, which has lost nine straight games after being early-season premiership favourites.

'Mistakes are going to happen through games. I probably ran routes and made mistakes throughout the game too. As long as we are all playing our role and holding each other accountable. We resolved things straight away. I love the guy, so there are no hard feelings.'

He noted that Lombard showed him the social media reaction, and while Petracca is used to media scrutiny after 12 years in Melbourne, he is more concerned about a younger player being caught up in it.

FAQ

What was the incident between Petracca and Lombard?

Petracca confronted Lombard after the young midfielder jumped in front of him to grab a clearance during a set play in the Suns' loss to Carlton. Lombard responded with an expletive.

Did Petracca apologise for his actions?

Petracca acknowledged he was 'too passionate' but did not issue a formal apology. He said the matter was resolved quickly and there are no hard feelings between the two.

What did Garry Lyon say about the incident?

Lyon criticised Lombard for a lack of respect toward a senior player, suggesting the young midfielder would have faced physical consequences in previous eras.

How are the Suns performing this season?

Gold Coast has lost nine consecutive games, falling from early-season premiership favourites and a top-four spot after Round 10 to the edge of the bottom four.