Disgruntled Corowa-Rutherglen duo James Lawton and Brent Rose have unloaded on the club after their appeals to join Mansfield were rejected.
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However, the Goulburn Valley outfit will appeal the decisions, which could cost the club $11,000.
“Basically I can’t see myself having any sort of relationship with anyone (coach or officials) from that place ever again,” a frustrated Lawton said.
“I’m gutted, angry, just feeling a bit lost.”
Lawton’s argument is based on the fact he’s living and working in Mansfield.
The Roos knocked back three clearance applications, with the matter moving to AFL North East Border Area Appeals Committee.
It deemed the contracts valid and the pair must honour the second year.
“They keep telling me they’re all about people first, they’re all about putting my family first … but then they’ll turn around and make decisions on what’s best for the footy club,” Lawton said.
The Roos issued a statement late Thursday in response to Lawton’s comments.
“We have the best interests of 60 footballers and 40 netballers that we are trying to manage,” it said.
“Unfortunately, we can’t put James ahead of them if it is detrimental to everyone else.
“In his own words, ‘we have gone above and beyond to make his family happy’.”
I can’t see myself having any sort of relationship with anyone (coach or officials) from that place.
- James Lawton
Meanwhile, best and fairest Rose wasn’t surprised by the decision.
“I might have signed a two-year deal, but we didn’t come to an agreement on the contract of the first year,” he said.
Rose said it’s related to bonuses.
“We believe that we have honoured the contract to the letter, we have had independent advice that agrees,” the club’s statement said.
The appeals are a non-refundable $2500 for each case.
It will also cost another $3000 each, but that’s refundable if AFL Victoria deems the appeals worthy.