Port Adelaide prepared for hostilities in Rioli's return against Geelong
Troubled Port Adelaide star Willie Rioli is poised to return to the AFL this weekend after serving his one-match suspension for threatening opponents.
Rioli was at training this morning, with his club appearing supportive of a return for Indigenous round on Saturday.
"We love having Willie around," assistant coach Josh Carr said.
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This week's clash is against Geelong, which was on the receiving end of one of Rioli's alleged on-field threats last year.
Willie Rioli of the Power prepares to kick. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Port Adelaide coach Ken Hinkley has warned opponents against sledging Rioli in an attempt to get under his skin, but even the Power acknowledges that warning could fall on deaf ears.
"I think Willie understands what that looks like and what could come his way, as long as it's all within the game," Carr said.
That sentiment has been echoed by cross-town rivals Adelaide, with Crow Wayne Milera suggesting that, as long as the line isn't crossed, verbal barbs are fair game.
"Sledging is always going to be there… you're definitely aware of what you're saying," he said.
"There's absolutely no place for racism in our game," he added.
The AFL, which has so far refrained from commenting on the Rioli situation, is expected to address the matter tomorrow.
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
