AN ESSENDON member - who caused a social media storm after abusing Max Gawn from over the fence - has issued a formal apology.  

Despite no action being taken by police or Etihad Stadium, Essendon has told the fan he's on his first and final warning and risks having his membership revoked if he is again found to have breached its code of conduct.

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The unnamed fan provided a statement on the club's website. "I am truly sorry and embarrassed by my behavior," the fan said.  

"Watching that back on TV, I was sickened by my outburst, especially as there were women and children nearby.

"I now realise that Max Gawn was just doing his job playing football and my actions were terrible.

"This has made me look at myself and realise never to behave like that again. I would like to apologise to Max Gawn for my behaviour and also to my family who have been embarrassed and ashamed of my behaviour.  

"I would also like to apologise to Essendon Football Club for my actions as it embarrasses and affects the club I love."

Earlier on Monday AFL.com.au revealed the fan had actually left his seat shortly after the incident of his own accord.

Close up vision of the incident from late in the third quarter saw the male fan wearing an Essendon scarf, leaning over the fence and getting in Gawn's face.

Gawn went back and kicked a banana goal before smiling at the fan.

Etihad Stadium security spoke to the fan straight away.

Max Gawn looks back at the crowd after one of his banana goals. Picture: AFL Photos

"The patron in question from today's incident actually removed himself from the seating bowl," an Etihad Stadium spokesperson told AFL.com.au.

"The patron was remorseful and said he would leave immediately.

"The police also interviewed the patron in question as well as patrons in the vicinity about what was said.

"They said it was abusive but apparently not sufficient enough to require any further action."