Sydney veteran Luke Parker might face an extended period outside the Swans’ AFL team due to a bump on a Frankston opponent during a VFL game on Friday.
In the second quarter, Parker hit Dolphins player Josh Smith, who did not return to the game, after moving past the ball.
Parker’s actions are expected to be reviewed by the VFL’s Match Review Panel, likely resulting in a rough conduct charge.
Luke Parker was involved in this incident in the VFL. pic.twitter.com/nHtqoJRowg
— AFL (@AFL) May 17, 2024
According to News Corp’s Jon Ralph, Smith was hospitalized from the collision, suffering multiple facial fractures and a concussion.
Given the significant impact of Parker’s bump on Smith, combined with high contact and carelessness, the 31-year-old could face a lengthy suspension.
If graded as careless conduct with severe impact and high contact, Parker could receive a minimum three-game suspension and likely a VFL Tribunal appearance.
Such a suspension would delay Parker’s first AFL game of the season by at least a month, especially with the Swans’ senior team having a bye in Round 12.
Parker missed the season’s start due to a pre-season broken arm and has yet to return to John Longmire’s team despite strong VFL performances.
The VFL’s match review process is expected to confirm charges from Round 8 by Monday evening or Tuesday morning at the latest.
