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Sydney Swans reinforce disappointment in Elijah Taylor following appearance in Perth court

The West Australian
VideoThe former partner of Sydney Swans star Elijah Taylor says she is shaken up and injured following an incident at the weekend

The Sydney Swans have reiterated their disappointment in Elijah Taylor following his appearance in Perth Magistrate’s Court today.

The first-year player pleaded guilty to a single charge of aggravated unlawful assault causing bodily harm, for actions that took place on September 13.

The charges are against his ex-girlfriend, Lekanhi Pearce, who he snuck in to his club’s WA hub at Joondalup Resort earlier this year while under strict WA quarantine rules.

MORE: TAYLOR PLEADS GUILTY TO ASSAULT CHARGE

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Sydney’s General Manager of Football Charlie Gardiner reinforced Taylor’s behaviour is not a representation of the club’s values.

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“These were very serious charges and something we never want to see in the community, much less have one of our players involved in,” Gardiner said.

“At the time of making the decision to stand Elijah down we said we would review the situation as it unfolded, and that is what we intend to do, in consultation with the AFL, the AFL Players’ Association and Elijah’s management.

“I would like to reiterate our club’s very strong position that violence against women, in any form, is never acceptable and we strongly condemn it.”

Lekahni Pearce posted to Instagram accusing ex boyfriend Elijah Taylor of domestic violence.
Camera IconLekahni Pearce posted to Instagram accusing ex boyfriend Elijah Taylor of domestic violence. Credit: Instagram / Lekahni Pearce

Taylor will be sentenced on Wednesday December 2.

The 19-year-old made his debut in round seven this year after being taken by Sydney with pick 36 in last year’s draft.

He managed four senior games before he was stood down for his quarantine breach.

Shortly after the Swans’ commented on the issue, the AFL re-issued an earlier statement in which they repeated their ‘unequivocal’ stance towards violence against women.

“Violence against women in any form is abhorrent and we strongly condemn it,” chief executive Gillon McLachlan earlier this month.

“Our view is clear and unequivocal – violence against women is never OK in any circumstance – ever

“Our absolute commitment is to respect women and to never accept or condone in any way, shape or form violence against women.”

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