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Hawks cleared on wrongdoing

Hawthorn players have been cleared from Mad Monday celebrations which included a clash outside a restaurant.

FootyGoss has learned Victoria Police cleared the Hawks of any wrongdoing, after a group of players were confirmed to be involved in a altercation with a group of young males in Glenferrie Road.

It’s understood a man involved in the scuffle reported the incident to police who reviewed CCTV footage from McDonalds but dismissed the assault allegations.

“Glenferrie Road McDonalds staff members have confirmed the group of Hawthorn players were set upon outside the restaurant after a verbal altercation with a number of their group inside moments earlier,” the club said in a statement.

“McDonalds staff have also confirmed Hawthorn players did not instigate the altercation.

“Hawthorn Football Club has no further comment to make regarding this incident and has been advised by Victoria Police that no further action is to be taken.”

Meanwhile, Hawks midfielder Shaun Burgoyne will play at the start of the 2011 season in round one after having his rough conduct charge dismissed by the AFL tribunal.

News reports say the decision was made after only a few minutes deliberations.

The 27-year-old was cleared of the charge against Fremantle young gun Alex Silvagni after Burgoyne tackled Silvagni in the second quarter of the elimination final at Subiaco on Saturday afternoon.

In the tackle, Silvagni’s head hit the ground and a medical report from Fremantle stated he suffered dizziness for five minutes after the event.

Burgoyne and player advocate Chris Townshend SC argued the Hawk’s intentions were simply to tackle Silvagni in the manner that was taught at training.

Burgoyne said he pinned Silvagni’s arm and had tried to roll him after moving to his side to enforce the tackle.