Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge denies he’s struggling mentally in wake of Tom Morris scandal – and reveals he briefed players about his post-match brain explosion
- Luke Beveridge is convinced he is fit to coach at AFL level after recent outburst
- Western Bulldogs coach accused reporter Tom Morris of ‘gutter journalism’
- Morris later sacked for misogynistic comments about colleague Megan Barnard
- Beveridge feels ‘energised and enjoys a strong connection’ with his players
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has dismissed speculation he is struggling mentally in the wake of the now infamous Tom Morris scandal.
In explosive scenes last Wednesday night at the MCG, Beveridge launched an astonishing verbal attack on the former Fox Footy reporter in the post-match press conference.
In the lead-up to the grand final replay against the Melbourne Demons, Morris correctly reported that midfielder Lachie Hunter would be dropped.
The development, from a leaked source at the Bulldogs, incensed Beveridge, who accused Morris of ‘gutter journalism.’
Morris was then sacked by Fox Sports last Friday after a recording of him revealing female colleague Megan Barnard’s sexuality was leaked online, along with another clip in which he made offensive comments about women, Asians, black people and homosexuals.
Speaking on Wednesday, premiership-winning coach Beveridge revealed he has since briefed his playing group following his outburst.
Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge has denied speculation he is struggling mentally in the wake of the now infamous Tom Morris scandal
After Beveridge accused Morris of gutter journalism, the Fox Footy reporter was then sacked last Friday after a recording of him revealing female colleague Megan Barnard’s sexuality in disgraceful fashion was leaked online
He also wasn’t prepared to discuss his tirade with Morris any further.
‘I am good, I’m really good. I’m energised. I’ve never felt healthier,’ he said.
‘Couldn’t feel more passionate about what I do and the players and I have got a real strong connection.
‘I’d (also) rather just leave it (Morris situation) where it is based on everything that’s happened to him.
‘Nothing to be gained by pouring any petrol on what’s already happened.’
Veteran reporter Caroline Wilson last week questioned whether Beveridge was equipped to coach at AFL level, stating he had brought the game into disrepute.
The club will donate $20,000 to youth mental health organisation Orygen following Beveridge’s tirade.
The Bulldogs will look to bounce back from their round one defeat when they meet Carlton on Thursday night at Marvel Stadium.
The Blues, who impressed in their first up win over Richmond, won’t have classy midfielder Adam Cerra on their team sheet.
The 22-year-old entered the AFL’s health and safety protocols on Wednesday morning, joining teammate Jack Martin and coach Michael Voss, who have been isolating since Friday.
Carlton confirmed on their club website all other players returned negative test results.
In better news for the Blues, fellow midfielder Sam Walsh will return from the syndesmosis injury he suffered in pre-season as a straight swap for Cerra.
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