Channel Seven presenter and Perth Lord Mayor Basil Zempilas caught the ire of the football community for his post-match presentation at Saturday night’s Grand Final.
Standing on the dais following Melbourne’s 74-point win over the Western Bulldogs, Zempilas was tasked with inviting key figures to speak and hand out awards.
While Demons captain Max Gawn was able to give out a classy speech, Zempilas forgot to allow coach Simon Goodwin a chance to talk and thank supporters, sponsors and his players.
Although he took it in his stride, Goodwin said he originally prepared a speech that he wasn’t given the chance to deliver on the big stage.
“I got shafted, didn’t I?” Goodwin said on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.
“I didn’t know what happened there, I had it all ready to go, I had the cheat notes and a few sponsors to single out.”
Goodwin said he simply wanted to thank the club’s supporters for their ongoing backing throughout a tough, COVID implicated season.
“I just would’ve said to the supporters and everyone at home, this is us, this is who we are, and they should be so proud,” Goodwin said.
“Hopefully all the supporters back home are enjoying it, I know they’re in lockdown but speaking to a few I know they’re sinking a few beers.”