Brad Scott’s Novel Approach to Alexandra Merrett’s Gimlet Post

Essendon coach Brad Scott has dismissed social media criticism regarding the absence of player partners at matches, responding with humor to a viral TikTok post shared by Alexandra Merrett. Speaking on April 9, 2026, Scott indicated that he has no expectations for the partners of his players to attend games, particularly during difficult periods for the club.

The controversy began following Essendon’s loss to the Western Bulldogs in the week preceding April 9, 2026. Alexandra Merrett, the wife of Essendon player Zach Merrett, posted footage to TikTok showing her having a drink at Gimlet, a fine-dining restaurant in Melbourne. The post included a caption stating, when your husbands team is losing by 50 points at half time so you go to gimlet instead.

The post attracted significant attention on social media, leading to a public discussion about the propriety of partners leaving matches early. However, Scott chose to downplay the situation, suggesting that the pressures faced by partners can often exceed those experienced by the players and coaching staff themselves.

We’re very fortunate to do what we do as players, coaches. In a lot of ways it’s harder on the partners than the players. We can absorb just about anything. When your partners have to absorb it, it can be extremely hard.

Brad Scott

Scott further lightened the mood during his Thursday press conference by joking that he would be willing to fund future visits to the restaurant for Merrett.

I’ll pick up Alexandra another gift voucher to Gimlet next week if she wants it.

Brad Scott

Club Challenges and Vandalism

The social media row comes at a volatile time for the Bombers, who remain winless after their first four games of the season. According to reporting from The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, Scott is dealing with several pressing issues beyond the conduct of player partners.

The club recently dealt with an incident involving vandals who targeted the team’s training field. The perpetrators used petrol to write derogatory messages onto the turf, adding to the external pressures facing the club during its winless streak.

Roster Updates and Outlook

Despite the difficult start to the season, there is optimism at the club’s training base, known as the Hangar. This hope follows an improved performance in the second half of the match against the Western Bulldogs.

Essendon expects a boost to its defensive line for the upcoming match against Melbourne, as important defender Jordan Ridley is scheduled to play his first game of the season.

the club will see the debut of Sullivan Robey. A lifelong Essendon supporter and prized draft pick, Robey is a 192-centimetre midfielder who is returning to the top flight after an injury-interrupted start to his tenure with the club.