AFL player’s dad headbutted at MCG: court



AN AFL footballer’s father who was allegedly bashed outside the MCG brought misfortune on himself by swearing at a rival team’s supporter, a defence barrister has said.


Bradley Jones was assaulted after he swore at Collingwood supporter Jesse Mallinder, as Mallinder celebrated the Magpies’ win over Melbourne in April 2009, the Victorian County Court heard on Tuesday.

Mallinder, 27, is accused of headbutting and punching Mr Jones, whose son Nathan plays for Melbourne.

Mallinder’s brother, Dayne Siegle, 24, is also accused of assaulting Mr Jones.

Mr Jones’ 14-year-old son Zak cried as he witnessed the assault and called out, “Don’t hit my dad. Somebody, help!” the court heard.

Mallinder and Siegle are standing trial after pleading not guilty to affray, intentionally causing serious injury and recklessly causing serious injury.

Mr Jones suffered a fractured nose and rib and swelling around the eye.

He was walking on the concourse outside the ground with Zak and a female friend when the alleged assault occurred.

Mr Jones told the jury the attack began when he was headbutted and punched by Mallinder after telling him to calm down.

He was also kicked, the court heard.

Mallinder had been yelling abuse at people, Mr Jones said.

Under cross-examination Mr Jones denied he swore at Mallinder.

Siegle’s barrister Peter Murley told the court Mr Jones was “the author of his own misfortune”. He said Mr Jones had called Mallinder a f***ing c**khead as an “exultant” Mallinder celebrated the Pies’ win.

Mr Murley said Mr Jones was angry, like “a cartoon figure with smoke coming out of their head”.

He said Siegle joined in the clash when he saw his brother on the ground.

Mallinder’s barrister Wayne Henwood said his client was scared for his own wellbeing and acted in self-defence.

Judge Roy Punshon told jurors the case had nothing to do with which football team they followed.

The trial will continue on Wednesday.

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