Patrick Dangerfield, Geelong’s captain, successfully overturned a one-game suspension following a tackle on Carlton’s Sam Walsh, allowing him to participate in the upcoming crucial match against Essendon.
The AFL Tribunal ruled in favor of Dangerfield on Tuesday night, dismissing the rough conduct charge imposed after the incident with Walsh. The tackle, initially deemed rough conduct by the match review officer, involved Dangerfield pinning both of Walsh’s arms during the game against Carlton.
During the tribunal hearing, Dangerfield defended his actions, emphasizing that his tackle was executed with utmost care to ensure Walsh’s safety. He argued that pinning both arms was the safest method to control Walsh’s landing and prevent potential injury, despite the AFL’s concern over the tackle’s impact.
The tribunal’s decision, after deliberating for 40 minutes, concluded that Dangerfield’s tackle did not constitute rough conduct. Chair Jeff Gleeson highlighted that Dangerfield’s intent to prevent Walsh from hitting the ground forcefully was evident in his actions, thus clearing him of any wrongdoing.
Dangerfield’s availability for the upcoming match against Essendon is crucial for Geelong, as they aim to reverse a recent string of losses and bolster their standings in the competition.
This outcome marks a significant development in AFL’s handling of player safety and conduct on the field, reflecting ongoing debates and considerations surrounding tackling techniques and player welfare.
