Are you serious? Nobody forces anyone to drink, and nobody forces anyone to get drunk. If you choose to get drunk you are still responsible for your own actions, and then you have to take the consequences. Would you apply the same logic to a drunk driver who knocks someone down and injures them? "It's not my fault officer, I'd had a few drinks".
If Barnard is innocent I hope he gets off, but if he is guilty, he deserves to have the book thrown at him. Being p1ssed is NO excuse.
These highly paid players have a responsibility to the fans, the club and themselves to behave in a way that reflects well on all concerned. Having a few drinks to relax is one thing. Getting involved in drink-fuelled violence is completely unacceptable.