Scott Pendlebury Faces Fine for Striking Lachie Neale: AFL Assess Incident as Intentional Conduct

Collingwood star Scott Pendlebury has avoided suspension following an incident involving a strike to the abdomen of Brisbane Lions player Lachie Neale. The AFL assessed the incident as intentional conduct with low impact and body contact, resulting in a $2,500 fine if Pendlebury accepts an early plea.

Pendlebury, known for his clean disciplinary record throughout his extensive 387-game AFL career, was observed striking Neale’s stomach with an open hand late in the third quarter. Neale visibly reacted to the blow, experiencing discomfort and remaining on the ground for a period.

During post-match interviews, Pendlebury acknowledged the incident, expressing remorse to Neale and attributing the action to a momentary lapse. Reflecting on the post-game exchange, he mentioned apologizing to Neale, emphasizing that he did not intend to cause harm.

Lachie Neale took some time to get to his feet after this incident with Scott Pendlebury 🤔

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Opinions on the incident varied among AFL commentators. Former player and analyst Jason Dunstall suggested that a fine would be appropriate for Pendlebury, noting that the action seemed out of character for him. Similarly, Saints legend Leigh Montagna advocated against suspension, considering an open-hand strike to the stomach as insufficient grounds for a player to miss a match.

However, David King, a former Kangaroos player, urged the AFL to consider suspensions for such incidents in the future, expressing concern about the influence of on-field behavior on lower levels of the game. He emphasized the need to address such actions to maintain the integrity of the sport.

Overall, while opinions on the severity of the incident varied, there was a consensus that it was uncharacteristic of Pendlebury, reflecting the intensity of the game and the competitive spirit between the teams involved.

This is where the AFL ties itself in knots. Had the chance to suspend George Hewett and botched it. Didn’t suspend Neale for a retaliation strike either. So Scott Pendlebury can’t go for that can he? Both incidents while waiting at a stoppage. #afllionspies

— Sam Edmund (@Sammy__Edmund) March 28, 2024