Mathew Nean’s bid to end a 20-year suspension hits roadblock as rival clubs show support
After copping a 20-year ban in 2016, Mathew Nean’s latest bid to end his Group 4 ban hit a roadblock. But he now has the support of some rival clubs as he continues his fight. READ THE LATEST.
Mathew Nean’s bid to overturn a controversial 20-year suspension has hit a roadblock following a Group 4 general meeting.
Hit with the monster ban following the 2016 grand final following contact on a referee, pressure has been mounting on his case to be reviewed after this masthead revealed in October that Nean engaged legal support to try and overturn his 20-year suspension.
Following conversations with clubs it was put to the board about the prospect of that ban ending, following nine years on the sidelines.
The Group 4 committee however voted against allowing him to return to the field of play, a blow to his hopes of coming back in 2026.
Moree Boars president Todd Mitchell was happy to throw his support behind the ban coming to an end.
“I’ve never spoken to him on the phone, but my personal opinion is that I think he’s done his time,” he said.
“It’s time for him to get back and play some football with the few years (in the game) he has left.
“I think it’s time for everyone to move on, that’s my opinion. If it was me I’d be devastated.
“He’s a good fella in the community from what I understand, he’s done a lot for the kids.”
Mitchell was also stunned by the original suspension of 18 weeks ballooning out to 20 years after Nean pleaded not guilty at the judiciary.
“I don’t know the ins and outs, but the original suspension of 18 weeks going to 20 years seems pretty lengthy to me,” he said.
“With roughly 15 games per year, that’s 300 games. That’s a lot of footy to miss.”
Another club president, who wished to remain anonymous, believes Nean has paid his dues.
“I am happy for Matt Nean to be allowed back to play. He has more than served his time.”
Nean confirmed there is no ill will aimed toward grand final referee James Brown, going as far as to offer a meeting with the official.
“My dispute is with the NSWRL and the excessive penalty I received. I am happy to sit down with James Brown and clear the air”.
Group 4 and NSWRL were both contacted for comment.
Originally published as Mathew Nean’s bid to end a 20-year suspension hits roadblock as rival clubs show support
