Talia brothers at centre of AFL investigation into leaked information

THE Western Bulldogs are concerned one of their players passed “sensitive information” to another club ahead of a knockout final.

BROTHERS Michael and Daniel Talia are understood to be involved in an AFL investigation requested by the Western Bulldogs.

The AFL integrity unit is looking into allegations that “game sensitive information” was leaked from the Bulldogs to Adelaide ahead of their elimination final.

Adelaide won the match by seven points.

The AFL became involved after a request from the Bulldogs.

Speculation was rife at Tuesday night’s AFL All-Australian dinner that the investigation involved the Talia brothers.

Michael plays for the Bulldogs, but is out of contract, while his older brother Daniel is a Crows defender.

In a statement, Bulldogs chief executive David Stevenson said they became aware of the alleged leak three days after the September 12 season-ending loss.

The Bulldogs called it “in appropriate transmission of game-sensitive information”.

“While we do not believe this matter had a material bearing on the game or the result, we believe it is appropriate to report these matters relating to integrity to the AFL for consideration,” Stevenson added.

Michael Talia.

Daniel Talia.

The Crows also released a statement on Tuesday, denying they had done anything wrong.

“We are aware of an internal investigation undertaken by the Western Bulldogs regarding the transmission of some limited game-sensitive information in the lead-up to our recent final,” Crows chief executive Andrew Fagan said.

“Our club strongly refutes any suggestion of wrongdoing.

“At no stage did our coaches meet to discuss any information received from an external source, nor did it alter our team selection, strategies or game plan.”

Bulldogs captain Bob Murphy said on Tuesday night that people had to tread carefully regarding the matter.

“Football clubs are family ... it’s such a close knit brethren and feeling among people,” he said.

“I’d hate to think that was broken.”

Daniel and Michael Talia during their school days.

Originally published as Talia brothers at centre of AFL investigation into leaked information