The following statement is attributed to AFLPA CEO, Paul Marsh: 

“Concussion is one of the biggest threats to our game and, as such, any head knocks must always be treated with caution. It is vital we, as an industry, are conservative when dealing with these injuries. 

“The AFLPA spoke to Aliir Aliir and Lachie Jones and met with Port Adelaide players and the club earlier this week. The club doctor made a serious mistake but importantly both he and the club have taken responsibility for the mistake. We acknowledge club doctors have an extremely difficult job and one that takes place in a high-pressure environment with real life consequences. This was a serious error of judgement that has rightly come under scrutiny. 

“We acknowledge the AFL’s findings, announcement of further reviews of the incident, and that the club has accepted its penalty. 

“This presents an opportunity for the entire AFL industry to reflect on its practices and protocols relating to head knocks. We have been in discussions with the AFL and club around what can be learnt and improved as a result of this incident.”