The fallout from Zach Merrett’s failed move to Hawthorn has taken a cheeky turn, with Hawks defender Blake Hardwick firing a playful jab at Essendon on social media.
As the trade deadline passed without Merrett’s transfer being completed, Hardwick posted an image comparing the Bombers to Alcatraz, the former high-security US prison known for being impossible to escape.
The post, which briefly appeared on his Instagram before being deleted, showed the Essendon club logo alongside a picture of the island prison, captioned “Alcatraz”, in reference to the club’s refusal to release their captain.
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Players join in on the joke
Hardwick’s post quickly caught the attention of several AFL players, sparking laughter across social media. Hawthorn youngster Nick Watson responded with “not wrong”, while teammate Jack Ginnivan joined in with a string of laughing emojis.
The light-hearted jab came after Essendon held firm throughout the trade period, rejecting Hawthorn’s final offer, which reportedly included Picks 10, 22, a future first-round selection and midfielder Henry Hustwaite.
Essendon CEO Craig Vozzo later told Trade Radio the club never intended to part with Merrett. “Our position was, number one – to retain Zach. No doubt at all,” he said. “Without in any way demeaning Henry, he is a very good footballer, but he wasn’t going to shift the dial in the context of this transaction.”