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Hawthorn forward Nick Watson is likely to cop an AFL fine for an obscene finger gesture after footage emerged of him flipping the bird to Richmond supporters on Sunday.
On a day the Hawks celebrated their VFL-AFL centenary, Watson was seen engaging with Tigers supporters in the goal square before giving the middle finger salute and then pointing toward the scoreboard, as the Hawks posted their sixth win.
Watson was almost certainly was sparked into action by the spirited Tigers’ supporters.
The flipping of the bird has become a slow-burn trend this season. West Coast Eagles star Harley Reid was sanctioned for his actions towards Brisbane fans at the Gabba, while Geelong recruit Bailey Smith has been fined twice. There was the double bird he gave Adelaide fans during Gather Round, while he as also sanctioned for taking aim at Hawthorn supporters when he left the field during the game at the MCG.
Smith and Reid were handed a “please explain” by the AFL, and ultimately accepted $1000 fines. Smith was sanctioned $1875 for his second offence.
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AFL footy boss Laura Kane told this masthead last week she did not believe the league had been prudish when fining Smith and Reid.
“We don’t want to see [the bird]. Adults might not think it’s a big deal
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