Port Adelaide mascot punched by minor during anti-social Showdown against Crows
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Port Adelaide's mascot has been punched by a minor during Saturday night's Showdown clash between the Power and Crows.
It added to a long list of anti-social behaviour that was reported during the Power's 22-point win over Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.
Port Adelaide's Dan Houston dangerously bumped Crow Izak Rankine and left him unconscious on the turf in the second quarter, while there were also reports of racial abuse towards Power forward Willie Rioli from a Crows fans online.
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A handful of Port Adelaide fans also reportedly booed Rankine as he was being stretchered from the field after that heavy Houston knock.
As for the mascot, 'Thunda', the man inside the suit also allegedly suffered a blood nose from the force of the punch from the minor.
Port Adelaide's mascot, Thunda, was punched during the Showdown in round 23. Getty
Adelaide Oval confirmed they are investigating the incident, while Port Adelaide confirmed they will not take the incident further.
Meanwhile, Houston's dangerous bump, which was graded as careless conduct, severe impact, high contact, was referred directly to the tribunal, with no chance of an early plea.
Houston will plead his case on Tuesday night.
As for the Rioli incident, Adelaide confirmed that while the fan was not a club member, they had referred it straight to the AFL integrity unit.
"Adelaide is investigating reports of a racial slur being directed at a Port Adelaide player via social media on the weekend," the club wrote.
"The individual involved is not a Crows member however, the club condemns in the strongest possible manner this disgusting behaviour and reiterates there is no place for racism in our game and society.
"The AFL's integrity department has also been notified.
"It is extremely disappointing that our industry once again finds itself dealing with such unacceptable behaviour."
