Brendan Lines 21st Aug, 2020

Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley has slammed the actions of players Chris Ladhams and Dan Houston as a ‘selfish mistake’ in the wake of their breaches of AFL return to play protocols relating to COVID-19.

Speaking today at Alberton, Hinkley scolded the pair, as Ladhams and Houston were handed three and two match suspensions respectively on Thursday.

“It’s not just our issue it’s an AFL issue, it’s a disappointing outcome and we all understand the rules,” he said.

“I’m really clear this is not an easy mistake to make when you know all the information, this is a selfish mistake.”

Ladhams invited Houston and friends to his home following Port Adelaide’s game against the Western Bulldogs on Monday August 3rd, following Port Adelaide’s game against the Western Bulldogs on Monday August 3rd.

Hinkley reinforced all players are ‘one hundred percent educated’ of their obligations under the AFL protocols.

The consequences of Ladhams and Houston is cause for concern says Hinkley.

“The outcome hurts the industry and hurts us a football club,” he said.

With the AFL imposing a $50,000 ($25,000 suspended) fine to the club for the breach, Hinkley backed away from commenting how the club intends to take the financial hit to the club’s already shrinking bottom line in the face of COVID-19 affected finances.

Hinkley dismissed any suggestion of ill effects the furore will have on the team.

“The team will be ok, the team is fine, we’re a good team and ready to go,” he said.

Opting for the tall ruck duo of Scott Lycett and Ladhams in recent weeks, Hinkley has brought in utility Justin Westhoff to replace Ladhams

Three additional changes sees the inclusion Riley Bonner, Jarrod Lienert and Brad Ebert.

Further heat on Ladhams and Bonner came on Thursday as Port Adelaide General Manager of Football Chris Davies said the pair will have to earn back the club’s respect.

“Port Adelaide has taken our responsibilities toward the global pandemic seriously since the outset, but ultimately everyone has a responsibility,” Davies said.

“Pete and Dan knew the rules and will now have to work hard to earn back the respect of their teammates and coaching staff.

“The AFL considered Pete’s breach to be worth extra on the basis that he was the instigator of the gathering.

“As a club, code and as a community we have to remain vigilant and disciplined against the spread of COVID-19. There is absolutely no room for complacency.”

Port Adelaide play Hawthorn at Adelaide Oval Saturday 4:05pm ACST.