Let me make one thing clear from the start.

Willie Rioli jnr deserved to be sanctioned for allegedly sending a threatening message to a Western Bulldogs teammate of Bailey Dale. There was no excuse absolving him from responsibility for that.

However, I want to be just as clear that no one should pretend what has happened is merely a function of Rioli jnr’s behavioural issues.

Port Adelaide forward Willie Rioli will return against the Cats on Saturday.Credit: Getty Images

Because what Rioli jnr has been subjected to over the years, especially since he returned from a two-year ban for tampering with a urine sample during a routine sporting drug test, has gone beyond what is acceptable for anyone playing the game.

I don’t want to hear anyone tut-tutting about his on-field reaction to the taunts.

It’s what was expected. It’s what his opponents wanted. Many searched for it, thinking his reaction would hurt his team or make him a less damaging player.

Rioli jnr only went too far in most people’s view – including mine – when he took his reaction off the field.

But what had already gone too far was what Rioli jnr had been copping, both while playing, and on social media for years.

Port coach Ken Hinkley (right) has backed Willie Rioli without condoning behaviour which oversteps the mark Credit: AFL Photos

Some taunts might be considered........

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