GWS captain Toby Greene has faced suspension for the eighth time in his career, as his attempt to overturn a one-game ban at the tribunal was unsuccessful. Consequently, Greene will be absent from the Giants’ upcoming game against the Brisbane Lions on Anzac Day. This suspension marks his first since the notable incident involving contact with an umpire during a 2021 elimination final against Sydney.
The tribunal ruled in favor of a rough conduct charge against Carlton defender Jordan Boyd during the Giants’ recent match, resulting in Greene’s suspension. This adds up to 15 games missed due to suspension throughout Greene’s 221-game career. The incident involved Greene leading towards the ball, attempting a mark, but ultimately making contact with Boyd’s head as they collided mid-air. Despite Boyd continuing to play after the collision, Greene’s actions were deemed careless conduct with medium impact and high contact.
Greene maintained that his focus was solely on the ball and only realized he wouldn’t reach it in time to take the mark at the last moment, prompting him to brace for impact. His legal representative argued that Greene’s actions were reasonable given the circumstances.
While Greene serves his suspension, teammate Jesse Hogan has been cleared to play after successfully appealing a one-game ban for striking. Hogan’s incident with Carlton defender Lewis Young was initially graded as intentional conduct with low impact and high contact. However, the tribunal panel dismissed the charge, citing insufficient force from Hogan to warrant a low impact grading.
Hogan admitted to engaging in some verbal exchange with Young but believed he was unfairly treated. He clarified that he initially thought he hadn’t made significant contact until Young suggested otherwise post-game.
GWS football boss Jason McCartney expressed satisfaction with Hogan’s case dismissal but disappointment regarding Greene’s suspension. McCartney emphasized the club’s commitment to player safety while defending Greene’s actions as part of a routine marking contest within the game.
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