Luke Beveridge launches extraordinary attack on reporter following first round loss
Luke Beveridge has launched an extraordinary verbal attack on a journalist following the Western Bulldogs’ first round loss to Melbourne.
The Bulldogs coach singled out Fox Footy’s Tom Morris following the defeat.
Morris had accurately reported earlier in the week that midfielder Lachie Hunter would not be picked for Round 1.
Hunter, who was initially selected as the medical sub, was a late inclusion after Jason Johannisen pulled up sore after the pre-game warm-up.
Speaking after the 26-point defeat, Beveridge was less than impressed when asked a question by Morris.
He said the reporter had a lot of “nerve” asking a question, let alone attending the press conference.
Beveridge accused Morris of “preying” on his club and that he had a “conflict of interest” as a Melbourne fan.
Beveridge said the health and wellbeing of people in the game was being impacted by reports like Morris’s.
“You’re an embarrassment to what you do,” he said.
Wow.
Luke Beveridge 😳 pic.twitter.com/Yxj86Z5y4i
— 7AFL (@7AFL) March 16, 2022
Beveridge’s outburst prompted widespread condemnation from respected media figures from a variety of outlets.
I’ve never seen a footy coach so far out of order as Luke Beveridge was in tonight’s press conference.#afl2022
— Greg Baum (@GregBaum) March 16, 2022
Ignore all the theatrics, Luke Beveridge tonight confirmed that @tommorris32 got his story on Monday night 100 per cent correct.
— Daniel Cherny (@DanielCherny) March 16, 2022
Have long been a supporter of Luke Beveridge, but tonight he lost me. A journalist did his job, broke the selection news and was 100% correct. Bevo, go and find the leak in your club and take it out on them. Your media conference tonight was embarrassing.
— Corey Norris (@coreynorris9) March 16, 2022