The Adelaide Football Club welcomes the AFL’s decision to abandon Sunday’s game against Geelong in the wake of the sad and sudden passing of Senior Coach Phil Walsh.

The Club’s sole focus at this point in time is the welfare of the Walsh family, our players, coaches and staff. Counselling and support services have and will continue to be available to those affected by this tragedy.

Crows Chairman Rob Chapman said football was secondary at this difficult time.

“Phil was a great bloke and the outpouring of support and condolences we’ve seen right across the country today is testament to his profound impact on the game over a long period of time,” Chapman said.

“In the tragic circumstances, the welfare of Meredith, her family and our people is paramount. Through these difficult days, the Adelaide Football Club family will stick together and support each other unconditionally.”

With Sunday’s game now cancelled, both Adelaide and Geelong will split the premiership points, receiving two points each.

“We believe the AFL has made the right decision for the football community,” Chapman said.

“We’d also like to thank the Geelong Football Club for their understanding and support of this decision.”

The Club’s scheduled SANFL game against South Adelaide on Saturday afternoon has been postponed until later in the season. These matches will be rescheduled for Round 17 which is a split round.