Saturday 25 July 2015 12:50, UK
Australian golfer Robert Allenby has been accused of getting "up to his old tricks” following his on-course spat and ultimate sacking of caddie Mick Middlemo during the first round of this week's Canadian Open in Ontario.
The Australian's approach to the green ended up in a creek and led to a triple-bogey eight before Middlemo removed his bib and walked off the course.
They had a blazing row on the fairway, which resulted in a spectator carrying Allenby's bag for the remainder of the round.
Starting on the 10th tee, Allenby had another eight at the 18th, reached the turn in 43 shots and went on to post a nine-over-par 81.
He subsequently withdrew from the tournament and told the media that Middlemo had "lost the plot" and "got right in my face".
However, another caddie Simon Clarke has now jumped to his fellow bagman's defence after witnessing the verbal confrontation.
It's disappointing that Allenby is still treating people that way.
Clarke was in the same group as Allenby working for South Korean SJ Park and says he wants to speak out in favour of Middlemo.
Clarke, who has known his compatriot Allenby for the best part of two decades, said: "I wouldn't be talking about it if he (Allenby) didn't tell the media afterwards a whole lot of porky pies.
"I've known Rob for a long time and I've known Mick for a long time. It's disappointing that Allenby is still treating people that way and how many good caddies he's gone through.
"It's sad that he speaks to the guys this way and doesn't wait until after the round. It's disappointing that he's up to his old tricks."
Middlemo also claims he was called "a fat so-and-so" by Allenby and Clarke added: "Mick took exception to that. He got fired up.
"If Rob tells the true story, I'm not speaking out. But lies will affect Mick's career."
Watch continued coverage of the PGA Tour's RBC Canadian Open live on Sky Sports 4 HD from 7pm on Saturday.
