Damning comments from West Coast made at the AFL Tribunal on Tuesday have been scantly regarded by North Melbourne.
The Eagles claimed Lindsay Thomas faked being hit to the groin by Luke Shuey despite clear video evidence showing contact had been made.
West Coast's advocate argued Thomas has “form” in playing for free kicks, effectively accusing him of diving.
Speaking on 1116SEN’s Morning Glory with Andy Maher, Tim Watson and David King, Chief of Football Donald McDonald refused to be drawn into a public slanging match.
“It’s not for us to be really too concerned about what other clubs say about our blokes,” McDonald said.
McDonald said the Eagles were trying to aid Luke Shuey’s case (for striking) by discrediting Thomas and North Melbourne wouldn’t have gone down the same path.
“At the end of the day clubs will put up whatever they want to put up to get their players off."
Shuey’s ban was upheld, meaning he’ll miss the next two matches.
“I don’t think it’s something we’d do. We don’t bring other players from other clubs into any discussions we have once the game is over. West Coast beat us on the day and we move on.”
McDonald says Thomas’ recent form has been terrific and such criticism is way off the mark.
“We couldn’t be happier with the way he goes about it. He attacks the footy really hard, plays with a lot of passion and I’m sure the North supporters are rapt in the way he goes about it.”
North Melbourne v Carlton
Friday July 13, 7.50pm
Etihad Stadium
