Suspension threat for pushing rivals amid spate of inj

AFL clubs have been warned of suspensions if players continue to push rivals in marking contests. Kieran Briggs, seen here, was concussed on Sunday. Photo: SUPPLIED.

THE AFL has warned clubs their players risk suspension if they continue to push rivals in marking contests.

In a memo sent by executive general manager of football Laura Kane, the league makes it clear to club football bosses that it is keeping a close eye on the sudden spate of injuries.

Sam Lalor, Laitham Vandermeer, Mitchito Owens and Kieren Briggs have all been concussed or injured after being pushed in marking contests in the last three weeks.

Kane last Thursday wrote to clubs to put the trend on the agenda.

“Please note such conduct may also be subject to a charge of rough conduct as a reportable offence, if it constitutes a breach of the duty of care owed by the player to their opponent,” the memo reads.

“Please inform your players of this ahead of your first match.”

While Darcy Cameron’s role in Briggs’ injury was considered negligible and match review officer Michael Christian has not laid a charge relating to any of the incidents, the league is now looking closely at player conduct in marking contests.

“Recently, there has been discussion regarding pushes into marking contests,” Kane writes.

“We will continue to umpire these instances as we have previously where a free kick will be awarded if a) a player unduly pushes their opponent in a marking contest or b) If a player pushes their opponent in the back in a marking contest.”

League chiefs have discussed the sudden spike in injuries suffered by players who have been pushed.

They are increasingly mindful of preventing players from undertaking in acts that risk health and safety.

BY SEN/SAM EDMUND