So, it’s …… Jack Ginnivan!
The Hawk has a set shot at goal. Sure, it’s a junk-time moment. But Ginnivan kicks truly and suddenly the margin has blown out. Ginnivan then brings the arms out for an “aeroplane moment”. It’s discreet, but certainly not missed. The cameras pan to Port coach Ken Hinkley, who offers a wry smile.
The background to this? In case you’ve been living on a deserted island, Ginnivan and Hinkley were key characters in the byplay which overshadowed the end to last year’s semi-final between these teams – a match won by Port Adelaide.
Straight after the game Hinkley was quick to remind Ginnivan that the Hawk “wouldn’t be flying” to Sydney for a prelim against the Swans. As part of his jesting towards Ginnivan, Hinkley put out his arms to mimic an aeroplane. The veteran AFL coach’s “aeroplane wings” sparked a feud between Port Adelaide and Hawthorn that simmered through the off-season.
Astonishingly, veteran coach Hinkley was whacked with a $20,000 fine for conduct unbecoming, despite his almost-immediate contrition. My view? The Hinkley fine was way over the top. The interaction between Hinkley and various Hawthorn players was simply a bit of good fun.
