Cats Fuming After Tribunal's Inconsistent Ruling

Geelong is reportedly questioning the consistency of the AFL Tribunal after Gold Coast successfully appealed Alex Davies’ high bump suspension, resulting in a mere fine. This decision has reignited debate surrounding the Shannon Neale rough conduct ban, with Geelong now feeling they should have challenged the one-match penalty handed to their coach.

The initial incident saw Neale penalised for clipping Sydney player, sparking immediate controversy. Geelong opted not to appeal at the time, but the outcome of the Davies case has prompted a significant re-evaluation within the club.

Davies Case Sets a Precedent

Gold Coast’s successful appeal hinged on arguing that Davies' bump, while forceful, didn't meet the threshold for a suspension. The Tribunal ultimately agreed, reducing the penalty to a fine. This ruling has left many within the AFL community scratching their heads, particularly those at Geelong.

Neale's Ban Now Seems Harsh

With the Davies precedent firmly established, Geelong now believes that Neale’s one-match ban for clipping a Sydney player appears disproportionately harsh. The club's leadership is likely wondering if they could have achieved a similar outcome had they launched an appeal. Sources within Geelong suggest a feeling of frustration and a sense that the Tribunal's standards are unclear.

Impact on Geelong's Finals Campaign

Neale's suspension comes at a crucial time for Geelong as they navigate the final stretch of the season and prepare for a potential finals campaign. Losing a key figure on the sidelines is a significant blow, and the inconsistent rulings from the Tribunal only add to the pressure and uncertainty surrounding the team's prospects.

The Bigger Picture: Tribunal Consistency

This situation highlights a broader issue within the AFL – the perceived lack of consistency in the Tribunal's decision-making. Fans and clubs alike crave clarity and fairness in the application of the rules. The Davies and Neale cases have brought this issue into sharp focus, prompting calls for a review of the Tribunal's processes and a greater emphasis on consistent application of the laws of the game.

The debate is likely to continue, with many questioning whether the Tribunal is adequately equipped to handle the complexities of modern AFL football and ensure fair outcomes for all involved. Geelong's frustration serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the AFL in maintaining integrity and consistency across all aspects of the game.