Essendon’s Peter Wright has been referred straight to the tribunal by the match review officer for a high bump that left Sydney’s Harry Cunningham concussed. This came after Sydney Swans star Tom Papley criticized the Bombers’ physicality in a provocative half-time interview.
Wright is likely facing a three to four-week suspension after the MRO assessed the incident as careless conduct, severe impact, and high contact. The incident occurred in the opening four minutes of their match at the SCG on Saturday night.
During the interview, Papley warned Essendon’s Peter Wright to expect “a nice holiday” and described the Bombers’ physical play during the Swans’ 30-point victory as deceptive.
Wright collided with Cunningham’s head while running towards a marking contest, causing Cunningham to be subbed out of the match due to concussion.
Following the incident, Wright was targeted by opposition players and booed by Swans fans for the remainder of the match.
Additionally, Swans players Nick Blakey, Justin McInerney, Tom McCartin, and Bomber Jye Caldwell were fined for their involvement in a melee during the heated first quarter.
Papley’s comments during the half-time interview criticized Essendon’s aggressive tactics, stating, “They were pretty good early, their pressure is good. They’re getting after us a bit, but we’ll keep going hard at the ball.”
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