Tess Crosley has described experiencing ‘love-bombing’ from AFL star Lachie Neale during their affair, a period that coincided with significant personal turmoil in her life. In her first public interview about the scandal with The Debrief with Savanna Young, Crosley, 30, detailed the intense attention she received from Neale, suggesting it played a role in her actions and judgment during their secret relationship.
The ‘Love-Bombing’ Phenomenon
Crosley explained that she believes she was subjected to ‘love-bombing’ by Neale. This term describes a tactic where an individual overwhelms another with excessive attention, affection, gifts, or promises early in a relationship, often fostering a strong emotional dependency. Crosley stated, ‘I think I experienced love-bombing, which I think definitely changes your brain chemicals.’ She reflected on her state of mind at the time, noting, ‘I look back and just think that was not me during that time.’ While acknowledging her own accountability, she highlighted the intensity of the experience.
She also revealed that the affair occurred during a difficult period in her life. ‘There was multiple things that happened in my life that took me to a place that was quite dark before everything started to happen and unfold,’ Crosley told The Debrief. She alluded to issues within her own marriage and a friendship that became ‘way too close,’ leading to the affair.
A Pattern with New Girlfriend Emma Field?
Comparisons are being drawn between Crosley’s experience and Neale’s current relationship with Emma Field. Field, 29, and Neale, 33, have reportedly progressed at a rapid pace since their relationship became public in early August. Their first public sighting was at Brisbane Airport, and within weeks, Field was seen in Neale’s inner circle, gaining access to the Brisbane Lions’ post-match rooms following a victory on August 21. Televised footage captured the couple kissing during the team’s celebrations.
This rapid progression mirrors the intensity Crosley described. Reports suggest Neale was messaging multiple women early in his relationship with Field, including allegedly expressing interest in more than a casual fling to one individual. This has led to speculation that Field might be experiencing a similar pattern of intense attention that Crosley claims swept her off her feet.
Emma Field’s Response to Neale’s Past
When approached on the Gold Coast last Thursday, Emma Field appeared to deflect questions regarding Neale’s past infidelity. She was asked about claims made by Neale’s ex-wife, Jules, on a podcast, which alleged that Lachie Neale had cheated on Jules with another woman before his affair with Tess Crosley. Field, a marketing professional, reportedly stonewalled the inquiry and did not respond when asked if she feared Neale might cheat on her in the future.
Field, who previously lived in Melbourne, maintains a significant social media presence with content focused on fitness, lifestyle, and travel. Neale has shown public support for Field, frequently liking her social media posts. Before her current relationship, Field ran a mobile beauty business with her sister in regional Victoria. Her relationship with Neale is reportedly a topic of discussion in her hometown.
Jules Neale’s Perspective
Lachie Neale’s ex-wife, Jules, is reportedly aware of his new relationship with Emma Field and appears unfazed, focusing on her own life moving forward. Both Tess Crosley and Jules Neale have recently shared their accounts of the scandal through podcasts, shedding light on the events that led to the breakdown of Neale’s marriage.
The Debrief with Savanna Young podcast, featuring Tess Crosley’s interview, is available on platforms including YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. The revelations offer a detailed look into the dynamics of the affair and the personal impact on those involved.
