Brisbane superstar Lachie Neale has spoken for the first time after his one-match suspension was overturned at the AFL Appeals Board on Thursday night.
Neale, was handed a one-game suspension for striking Hawthorn's Jack Ginnivan in the Preliminary Final at the MCG on Saturday night.
The suspension was then upheld by the Tribunal on Tuesday before the Appeals Board overturned the decision on Thursday.
Speaking after the successful appeal, Neale had a broad smile on his face as he addressed media.
"Obviously, very happy with the Appeals Board's decision," Neale said.
"Looking forward to playing the Grand Final now and I want to thank the club, Danny (Daly), everyone involved for the process and helping me play this weekend and the AFL Appeals Board for their decision as well.
"I wouldn't say (I have) a bigger point to prove, I just want to play my part on Saturday. Difficult challenge against Freo, but hopefully we do it."
Neale is now free to play in what will likely be his last game for the club.
The superstar midfielder is expected to move to Collingwood next season.
Neale and the Lions are hunting their third straight premiership on Saturday when they play Fremantle in the Grand Final at the MCG.
