Brisbane Lions Senior Coach Justin Leppitsch and midfielder Zac O’Brien say they are both apologetic for their actions after an incident at halftime in Saturday night’s Reserves game.

Leppitsch pulled O’Brien by the jumper during a discussion in the team rooms at halftime after the midfielder swore at Lions Reserves Coach Shane Woewodin during the first half of the game at Metricon Stadium.

Speaking this afternoon, O’Brien said: “I overreacted on the bench, which I’m not happy about and very remorseful and regret it.

“At halftime I went into the rooms with Justin and we had a chat, and we’re two pretty passionate people who care a lot about the Club and things got a little bit heated.

“But we put it to bed yesterday, I’m happy with where it’s at and Justin’s happy with where it’s at. We’ve cleared the air and are on good terms.

“I’m very comfortable with where I stand with the Club and the Coaches. I’ve got a good working relationship with Justin and I think this is just a little hiccup.

“We’ll move forward from here and be bigger and stronger for it.”

Leppitsch acknowledged he should have handled the situation differently.

“What’s happened is a couple of really passionate people have crossed the line and I’ve apologised to Zac,” said Leppitsch.

“I’ve yelled at him a little bit and grabbed his shirt, and that was inappropriate. It’s not something that I’m proud of.

“It was two passionate people in the heat of the moment. We’ve nipped it in the bud and everything is OK now.

“The one disappointing fact for Zac and I, is that we spoke on Sunday and Monday  and it was all good, and for it to be raised again is disappointing.’

O’Brien will be ineligible for Senior selection for the next two games for swearing at Woewodin, but will still be eligible to play NEAFL during that time under a penalty handed out by the Club.

Lions CEO Greg Swann said the matter had been discussed with both parties and was considered closed.

The AFLPA has been involved throughout and are satisfied with the outcome achieved.

AFLPA General Manger of Player Relations, Ian Prendergast, said “We are comfortable with the resolution that has been reached based on both Zac and Justin taking responsibility for the part they played and committing to continue the strong working relationship they had prior to this unfortunate incident.”