In a lively week of AFL news, local football supporters have now unexpectedly rallied around the league, encouraging them to call the bluff of a prominent Collingwood fan’s threat to boycott future matches. Earlier this week, Collingwood’s self-proclaimed cheer squad leader Joffa made a bold claim that he wouldn’t attend another AFL game until the league’s chief executive Gillon McLachlan issues a formal apology for the recent treatment of boisterous supporters.

While Joffa presumably expected to receive widespread support for his brave stance, it seems fans of opposition clubs have instead welcomed his self-imposed hiatus from attending AFL games. On such fan, who requested strict anonymity, told The Watsonia Bugle, “He’s promised to not attend games until Gil McLachlan apologises? Seriously? Haha, that’s great news. If Gil knows what’s good for him, he won’t say another word on the matter. If I never have to see that stupid gold jacket ever again, I’ll be a very happy man. The less Collingwood supporters at games the better!”

Another fan, Rick Samuels of Watsonia, told us, “The AFL better call his bluff on that one. It’s been a tough year so far for the league, but this would be a great PR exercise to get fans of at least 17 clubs back on board. It’d put a smile on my face, that’s for sure.”

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