Home and Away Mali defends Zane as Alf refuses to back down

Mali unexpectedly becomes one of Zane’s first allies in Summer Bay as tensions surrounding his criminal past continue to grow. After noticing how coldly Alf treats Zane, Mali refuses to simply stand by and watch him be judged without hearing his side of the story.

The tension becomes obvious when Mali sees Alf giving Zane a difficult reception at the board shop. Sensing that Zane needs an escape from the uncomfortable situation, Mali steps in and asks him to help carry some boards outside.

Mali later challenges Alf about his attitude and suggests he should ease up on Zane. Alf is unmoved, however, and remains determined to keep his guard up because of his concerns about Marilyn.

Away from Alf, Zane finally explains to Mali why he is being treated with such suspicion. He reveals that he is an ex-convict and admits that gaining acceptance in Summer Bay is proving far more difficult than he hoped.

Rather than immediately judging him, Mali empathises with what Zane is going through. His response offers Zane something he has struggled to find since his arrival, with another resident prepared to listen before deciding what kind of person he is now.

Alf later approaches Mali with a request of his own and asks him to keep an eye on Zane because they are both living at the caravan park. Mali refuses to act as Alf’s unofficial lookout and instead once again urges him not to be so hard on Zane.

Alf insists that his concern is about protecting Marilyn, who has quickly become one of Zane’s strongest supporters. Mali nevertheless appears uncomfortable with the idea that Zane should automatically be treated as a threat because of his past.

The disagreement puts Mali in an interesting position between Zane and one of Summer Bay’s most established residents. He understands Alf wants to look out for Marilyn, but he also appears determined to give Zane the opportunity to prove himself rather than assuming the worst.

For Zane, Mali’s support could prove particularly important at a time when he increasingly feels unwelcome. With Alf refusing to back down and Leah still uncertain about him, having even one person willing to hear him out could make a significant difference.

Home and Away airs weekdays on Channel 5 in the UK and streams on 5. SoapLandTV’s coverage follows the UK broadcast, while Australia is further ahead, meaning some storylines and developments may already have aired for Australian viewers.

For more Summer Bay news, spoilers and theories, visit the Home and Away Hub on SoapLandTV.co.uk. Images: Channel 5 / Seven Network.