Richmond's Social Media Team Under Fire for Tom Lynch Post
Richmond's social media team has been brutally mocked after sharing a video of forward Tom Lynch from Thursday night's match against Carlton at the MCG. The club posted vision of Lynch, who was mic'd up for the thrilling encounter, with the caption "leadership personified" on their social platforms.
Lynch's Performance Draws Criticism
However, the post backfired as Lynch had a disappointing night on the field. The veteran forward gave away a needless free kick that cost his side a shot at goal during a crucial moment in the narrow defeat. Lynch also struggled with accuracy, spraying the ball everywhere and finishing with two goals and seven behinds, in addition to conceding five free kicks throughout the game.
Kane Cornes Slams Richmond's Take
Channel 7 AFL expert Kane Cornes, who was critical of Lynch during the broadcast, expressed surprise at Richmond's social media portrayal. "We love the access ... but I thought the caption there, leadership personified, was laughable," Cornes said on Channel 7's The Agenda Setters. He then showed alternative footage from the game, calling it "the real vision of what went on on Thursday night."
Cornes highlighted Lynch's poor body language, whinging for free kicks, and flopping in the goalsquare. "I thought it was a poor example. So don’t give me 'leadership personified'. Give me flames, and Tom Lynch has to set a better example than getting suspended, than giving five free kicks away, than turning the momentum of the game at crucial times," he added. Cornes concluded by calling the post "disingenuous from the Richmond social team."
Dale Thomas Defends Lynch
Cornes was challenged by former player Dale Thomas, who argued that Cornes had a "narrow lens." Thomas pointed out that Lynch's role in setting up the forward line was overlooked. "If he’s giving one away for the Charlie Dean push, he should be getting two in return," Thomas said. "Show him setting up the forward 50, and how that forward line functions so well." He noted that if Lynch had kicked one more goal, Richmond might have won the game.
Leadership Expectations in AFL
Cornes reiterated his stance on leadership, emphasizing that Lynch, as a re-signed leader, should avoid taking risks when teammates are shooting for goal. "You’re a leader and you’ve signed on again, you’ve got to set an example when the team’s got momentum," Cornes stated. He referenced Lynch's five-week suspension last year and his five free kicks in this match, stressing that more is expected from leaders in high-pressure situations.
The incident has sparked debate about how AFL clubs use social media to portray player performances, especially after underwhelming results. Richmond's attempt to highlight leadership backfired amidst Lynch's struggles, drawing sharp criticism from analysts and fans alike.
