Collingwood star Nick Daicos has been accused by footy fans of play-acting after an off-the-ball incident with Western Bulldogs defender Taylor Duryea.
Daicos, 21, was seen clutching his jaw following the supposed contact, leading AFL identities like Brian Taylor and Matthew Richardson to suggest a fine for Duryea would be sufficient punishment.
Footage shows the Magpies midfielder seemingly exaggerating the contact at Marvel Stadium on Friday night. This sparked social media backlash, with supporters accusing the Collingwood player of ‘staging’ to win free kicks.
Radio presenter Brian Peel responded with, ‘And the Gold Logie goes to…’
Another fan bluntly stated, ‘the Golden Globe award for best actor goes to Nick ‘Princess’ Daicos. He should be reported for his pathetic acting.’ A third commented, ‘3 Brownlow points for [Daicos] following the year’s best dive.’
Post-game, Duryea remained silent but was visibly uncomfortable as Channel 7 commentators discussed the incident. When asked for his thoughts, he replied, ‘I can’t comment, can I?’
The Bulldogs’ victory moved them to 10th place, thanks to standout performances from Marcus Bontempelli and Adam Treloar. Bontempelli led with 38 disposals, 10 clearances, and two goals.
Collingwood, following their 18-point defeat, risk dropping out of the top eight depending on other weekend results.
