Collingwood star facing potential MRO scrutiny after high hit The Magpies recruit could be facing a suspension for his bump

Collingwood’s recent recruit, Dan Houston, is under scrutiny from the AFL’s Match Review Officer (MRO) following a high bump on Carlton’s Lachie Fogarty during the Magpies’ 8.15 (63) to 6.10 (46) victory. The incident occurred when Houston struck Fogarty with his right arm after the ball was no longer in play. Although Fogarty was assessed and cleared to continue, the action has drawn significant attention. citeturn0news11

Analysts suggest that Houston could face a suspension ranging from two to four weeks. The act is likely to be classified as intentional with medium impact, which typically results in such penalties. Given Houston’s prior suspension—a five-match ban last year for a dangerous bump on Adelaide’s Izak Rankine—the MRO may consider an extended sanction. citeturn0news11

Houston’s previous suspension occurred during his tenure at Port Adelaide before his trade to Collingwood. The trade, finalized five months ago, was part of a complex three-team deal involving Port Adelaide and the Gold Coast Suns. Houston joined Collingwood on a six-year contract, bringing his experience and leadership to the club. citeturn0news16

The AFL’s Match Review Officer, Michael Christian, will assess the incident’s severity and determine the appropriate penalty. Houston has expressed remorse for his actions, issuing an immediate apology to Fogarty. This incident highlights the AFL’s ongoing efforts to eliminate dangerous plays from the game, emphasizing player safety .

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Dan Houston Escapes Suspension for High Bump on Carlton’s Lachie

Port Adelaide’s Dan Houston has avoided suspension following scrutiny over a high bump on Carlton’s Lachie during their recent AFL clash. After an official review by the AFL Match Review Officer (MRO), Houston’s actions were deemed not severe enough to warrant a ban, sparking debate among fans and analysts.

The incident occurred in the third quarter when Houston collided with Lachie in what appeared to be a forceful bump. While there was clear high contact, the MRO determined that Houston had no malice in the action and that Lachie’s head movement contributed to the impact. Given these factors, Houston was handed a fine rather than a suspension.

The decision has divided the football community, with some arguing that any high contact should result in a harsher penalty to protect player safety. Others believe that Houston’s intent and the circumstances surrounding the bump justified the lesser sanction.

Port Adelaide welcomed the decision, with head coach Ken Hinkley stating that Houston had no intent to harm and that the club respects the AFL’s judgment. Carlton, on the other hand, has not officially commented, though some Blues supporters have voiced frustration over perceived inconsistencies in the tribunal’s rulings.

This case highlights the ongoing debate about the AFL’s approach to high-contact incidents. With growing concerns over concussion and player welfare, the league has been under pressure to enforce stricter penalties. However, this ruling suggests that intent and contextual factors still play a significant role in determining outcomes.

Houston’s availability is a boost for Port Adelaide as they prepare for their upcoming fixture. Meanwhile, Lachie is expected to be monitored closely for any lingering effects from the clash.

As the AFL continues to refine its stance on high bumps, this decision will likely be scrutinized in future cases, setting