Patrick Dangerfield Cleared by AFL Tribunal - Geelong vs Essendon Preview

Geelong's captain, Patrick Dangerfield, has successfully contested a rough conduct charge and is now cleared to play in the Cats' crucial upcoming game against Essendon. The AFL Tribunal's decision on Tuesday night ensures Dangerfield’s availability for this important match.

Tribunal Decision

Patrick Dangerfield was cited for a tackle on Carlton's Sam Walsh, which was initially assessed as rough conduct by the Match Review Officer. The charge included:

• Careless Conduct

• Medium Impact

• High Contact

However, Dangerfield defended his actions, stating that his technique was the safest way to tackle Walsh under the circumstances.

Dangerfield's Testimony

• Statement: "I knew what I wanted to do in terms of the way I wanted to tackle him... it was the safest way I could control the way he landed."

• Defense: "I haven't driven through in the tackle... you wouldn't execute a tackle in this way if you were going to enforce maximum damage."

Arguments and Deliberation

The AFL's counsel, Andrew Woods, argued that Dangerfield's tackle had the potential to cause injury and that he should have released one of Walsh's arms.

• Woods' Argument: "It would have been prudent to let go of one of his (Walsh's) arms... Dangerfield didn't do enough to discharge the duty that he owed Walsh and left him in a very vulnerable position."

Dangerfield, also president of the AFL Players Association, emphasized his awareness of the duty of care to fellow players and his intention to execute a safe tackle.

Tribunal's Verdict

After 40 minutes of deliberation, the Tribunal, chaired by Jeff Gleeson, concluded:

• Verdict: Not guilty of rough conduct.

• Reasoning: "The evidence is clear that Dangerfield... pulled back with considerable force to attempt to prevent Walsh being driven into the ground. This was not rough conduct."

Impact on Upcoming Match

With Dangerfield cleared, he will play in Geelong’s next game against Essendon at the MCG. The Cats, currently seventh on the ladder, are looking to break a streak of six losses from their last seven matches.

Key Match Information

• Opponent: Essendon (3rd place)

• Location: MCG

• Significance: Crucial for Geelong to maintain their position in the top eight.

Injury Updates and Team News

Geelong has faced several challenges with injuries this season, impacting their overall performance. Here's a summary of the key injury statuses:

Patrick Dangerfield's clearance is a significant boost for Geelong as they prepare to face Essendon. With the Tribunal's decision in their favor, the Cats aim to turn their season around and strengthen their position in the finals race.