I have always been angry at the heavy penalty handed out to Dale Kickett after that match. It was in the days of the Tribunal based in VFL-Central and the Dockers never fared well at that kangaroo court.
Kickett was, if I recall, given three separate penalties, totalling 9 weeks suspension, when really it was a single brawl. I felt then, and still believe, that they wanted to act tough by using micro analysis.
We have come a long way in recognition and celebration of indigenous players, but I reckon there was a big heap of racial bias evident in that case.
Yes, it was a big punch up, but I reckon DK was hung out to dry. Have we seen any 9+ week penalties since?
Coming near was Dean Solomon taking out Cameron Ling — the Geelong doctor said Ling would be out for decades earning Solomon (I think) six weeks and there was Ling out there again within (I think) two weeks.
DK - a great Fremantle hero.
