Image sourced from SEN
While playing his first game in the opening 22 for Carlton last Saturday (16th July), new recruit Will Hayes was charged with ‘rough conduct’ in their 30-point loss against the top spot, Geelong Cats.
The tackle occurred against Geelong midfielder Sam Menegola in the first quarter of the game, after their collision caused him to be subbed off with a concussion.
Post-game, the tackle was graded as careless conduct, high impact, and high contact by the Match Review Officer, despite the tackle displaying the classic wrap-around form.
Image sourced from SEN
Many supporters of the club are calling for Menegola’s unwillingness to protect himself as the real perpetrator of his concussion.
Others are labeling this incident as an example of bad umpiring within the latest AFL matches, calling for more fair and balanced free kicks to be given to both sides.
Following Western Bulldog star Bailey Smith’s recent ban due to the use of illicit substances, constituting the same duration ban as Hayes, some are even questioning the integrity of the MRO
In a review of round 18 by SEN Sports, seasoned Collingwood football player, turned commentator Nathan Buckley shared fans' disgust at the penalty
“You could lay that tackle 100 times & 98 times there’s no concussions. You get two weeks for a 2 out of 100 situation & it’s a free kick for 98 of the 100. What do we expect a player in Will Hayes’ position to do? In Will Hayes’ case, this could end his career… I hope they challenge it.”
Buckley’s call for Carlton to challenge the charge is not individual, with many of the clubs’ fans in support of an appeal.
As a first offence, the MRO has offered a two-match suspension as an early plea to Hayes.
With finals looming and the player being relatively new to the club, The Carlton Football Club has accepted the charge as of Monday 18th July.
Hayes will return for selection in Carltons round 21 clash against the Brisbane Lions, just two matches out from the first round of finals.
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