Yes, Shane, and we would not have seen the media buy into the poor Gaff phenomenon. While they lionize Gaff, the message goes out that it is naughty to king hit some one behind the play, but if you do, it is ok because we will make sure everyone feels more sorry for you than your victim*, except if you are from anywhereup. Then you will be demonised instead. Just ask Solly, Barry, and Dale.
When Kickett and Solly dished out what they did, Freo supporters were of the opinion that the receivers got their just deserts, but accepted that the players concerned would cop a suspension. No attempts to make out they were angels decended to earth in footy boots, no media beat up on the same score. And we still have Duffield trotting out the same old what happened to Gaff was Freo's fault stemming from the Demo Derby. He put together a highlights package purporting to show how Freo started all the fights. Have a look at it again and judge for yourself who the instigators were. It is the 2nd clip of the article.
Biffooeeey
* Except for Freo supporters.