There is only so much AFL can do to stop racism, says Port Adelaide chief Keith Thomas

PORT Adelaide chief executive Keith Thomas is confident Adelaide Oval will remain a fan-safe venue, but he fears the fight against racism is well beyond the AFL playing field.

PORT Adelaide chief executive Keith Thomas is confident Adelaide Oval will remain a fan-safe venue, but he fears the fight against racism is well beyond the AFL playing field.

The Crows-Power Showdown 42 derby was marred by fans brawling after the match on the northern hill at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night.

“We can fix that,” Thomas said.

“But racism is a disgrace - and a society issue. Football is the vehicle that brings racism to the public’s attention.”

The Port Adelaide Football Club has banned a Power member indefinitely for racially taunting Crows forward Eddie Betts.

The final penalty will be determined by the outcome of an SA Police report.

Thomas wants the Crows fan who racially insulted Power ruckman Patrick Ryder - and ran from Adelaide Oval when challenged by a fellow spectator - to come forward.

“He was called out and ran off,” Thomas said on radio FIVEaa.

“It will take a great deal of courage to come back and acknowledge his wrongdoing. But we want him to come to our football club, talk to us and start the process of being educated on why racism hurts - as it has with Paddy Ryder.

“Stand in front of our playing group, admit to being ignorant and learn why racism is wrong - that is a powerful moment. That offer still stands to that Crows fan.”

Crows captain Taylor Walker also wants the fight against violence to be won at Adelaide Oval.

“We want Adelaide Oval to be a safe environment welcoming families to have fun at the football,” Walker said.

“We want everyone to barrack hard for their teams. But we cannot tolerate the incidents we saw after the Showdown.”