No shortage of ink, pixels or airwaves was consumed by the Australian Crime Commission’s report into the links between performance-enhancing drugs, match fixing, organised crime and professional sports teams.

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What was missing, as quickly became clear, was concrete proof that any of the alleged illegal activity was happening, beyond the frowns on the faces of Demetriou, Smith and company in Canberra.

The subsequent scandals breaking out at clubs across the football landscape reflected the procedural chaos seen in this entire drugs-in-sport episode. Players have been pitted against clubs, who have been pitted against their leagues, who have seen their authority, and responsibility, blurred in relation to the powers that be in government and regulatory authority. Sports Minister Kate Lundy blared: "We will catch you." But we’re left to wonder, just who is she out to catch?