Probe ... A former Melbourne sponsor says a Demons official boasted about tanking. Source: News Limited
A Melbourne Football Club official boasted openly about tanking, a former Demons sponsor has revealed.
A company representative who was at a meeting of big sponsors said the official left him in no doubt Melbourne deliberately lost games so it could secure Tom Scully and Jack Trengove in the 2009 national draft.
"It was an off-the-cuff remark regarding the No.1 draft pick. He said words to the effect of: 'We made sure that happened'. He had a smile on his face at the time," the representative said.
"I mean everyone knew that it (tanking) happened, but I was just surprised that he actually came out and said it. He was trying to relay that they made sure they got the No.1 draft pick and the priority pick.
"Even though it was plainly obvious to everyone, you still don't expect to hear it being said."
The sponsor is the latest club figure to come forward and reveal details of Melbourne's alleged tanking strategy during the 2009 season.
Three players have now spoken out about the contentious "list management" tactics at the centre of an AFL investigation.
It is believed the league probe has uncovered significant evidence to suggest the club has a case to answer.
But the club's defence will centre around the pure definition of "tanking" compared to acceptable list management.
Melbourne president Don McLardy expressed concern over the impact of the investigation on the current group of players and coaches.
Amid a host damning revelations, he also pleaded for the club be treated fairly.
"The board of the MFC is concerned to ensure that the MFC is treated fairly and properly," McLardy said in a statement.
"The board will fully co-operate with an independent, lawful and transparent process. The board has sought an assurance from the AFL that natural justice will be afforded to the MFC, its players, employees and staff through the investigation."
The board is also concerned to ensure there is minimal impact on our current football department and playing group.
"Since the significant restructure by the board of our football department in 2011, we have had a clear plan and settled staff, and every effort will be made to ensure they can continue to focus on the upcoming season."
McLardy was one of 10 Melbourne directors in charge of the club, including then-president Jim Stynes, during the 2009 season.
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