Cloke's Runner Intervention Stirs Debate

Former AFL Premiership winner and noted hardman Travis Cloke found himself at the center of a bizarre incident on Saturday night as the now-Essendon runner intervened in a heated push-and-shove between players from his own club and Swans stars.

The incident occurred early in the second term after a Sam Draper kick put the Bombers in front on the scoreboard. The Bombers earned a free kick as Will Setterfield was tossed to the ground by Brodie Grundy, before Cloke physically pulled away Nick Hind and Jake Stringer from the melee in a bid to de-escalate the situation.

AFL's Stance Uncertain

It remains to be seen whether Cloke's actions will result in any disciplinary action from the AFL. Swans star Isaac Heeney expressed no issue with Cloke's involvement, stating that he was likely trying to protect his players from potential suspensions.

However, Fox Footy journalist David Zita suggested that the AFL may not share Heeney's view, noting that runners are not typically permitted to interact with players in such a manner.

Swans Tame Bombers

Despite the on-field drama, the Swans ultimately emerged victorious, defeating the Bombers 19.17 (131) to 15.11 (101). The win was marred by a heavy hit from Essendon key forward Peter Wright that left Sydney's Harry Cunningham out cold. Tensions between the two teams repeatedly threatened to boil over after that early flashpoint.

Players Clash After Draper Kick

The Bombers earned a free kick as Will Setterfield was tossed to the ground by Brodie Grundy, before Cloke physically pulled away Nick Hind and Jake Stringer from the melee in a bid to de-escalate the situation.

Heeney Unfazed by Cloke's Intervention

Swans star Isaac Heeney said he wasn’t fussed by the runner’s involvement.

“I didn’t even see it,” he told Fox Footy. “I don’t mind it – you don’t want to be silly in there, and he’s trying to protect his boys because you don’t want suspended players.

Zita Questions AFL's Stance

“I’m not sure what the AFL’s stance on this would be, though. I think a ‘please explain’ would probably be coming his way.

AFL May Investigate

“It’s not something you want to see, these things can get out of hand pretty quickly. Yes, he was trying to de-escalate the situation, but you don’t want the runners near the players, so I think that may be something that gets looked at in the coming days.”