Essendon’s Peter Wright is facing an anxious wait, as Jack Riewoldt has expressed concern that the Bombers forward is “in trouble” following a worrying incident involving Sydney’s Harry Cunningham.
Cunningham was momentarily motionless on the ground after what Cameron Ling described in commentary for Channel 7 as a “significant collision” with Wright early in the first quarter.
In this instance, Wright initially appeared to be contesting for the ball, but later braced for contact and made contact high with Cunningham in the process.
Sydney players reacted strongly to Wright’s actions, rushing in as both teams converged while Cunningham was later assisted from the field with the help of a stretcher.
Fortunately, Cunningham regained consciousness and mobility. At one point, he sat up on the stretcher and was able to walk off the field under his own power after being substituted out of the game.
Following this, focus shifted to potential repercussions for Wright. Ling suggested that he would have a “significant case to answer for” from the Match Review Officer (MRO).
“It was a significant collision,” remarked the Geelong premiership winner. “Straight away, everyone on the field recognized that Cunningham was in serious trouble.”
“I don’t believe it will matter whether it was a football-related action or not. Given the recent shift in attitudes, particularly following the Brayden Maynard incident over the off-season, I don’t think the AFL will overlook it if there was any contact to the head.”
“I anticipate that the AFL will hold Peter Wright accountable, considering he turned, made contact, and caused a concussion to the player. I believe he will face significant scrutiny.”
“I expect he will receive a lengthy suspension, particularly in light of recent precedents. When we reflect on Brayden Maynard’s situation from last year, where he was let off, I believe the outcome will be different this time, and Wright will likely be suspended for several weeks.”
Retired Richmond champion Jack Riewoldt concurred that Wright would likely face consequences for his involvement in the collision, though he noted it would be intriguing to observe how the Match Review Officer (MRO) assessed the incident.
“He is indeed in a precarious situation,” remarked Riewoldt on Fox Footy. “It’s somewhat unfortunate for Peter Wright. With his focus on the ball, suddenly something emerges from his peripheral vision, prompting him to brace for impact.”
“We’re aware that the AFL has altered its approach to such aerial contests involving head-high contact, particularly following the Maynard-Brayshaw incident during last year’s finals. In light of this, I believe Wright may find himself in trouble.”
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