Mabior Chol Cleared by MRO After High-Risk Tackle on Nick Blakey
Hawthorn forward Mabior Chol can breathe a sigh of relief after the AFL’s Match Review Officer (MRO) deemed his tackle on Sydney Swan Nick Blakey to be within the rules, despite initial concerns about the potential danger. The incident occurred in the second quarter of Thursday night’s clash, with Chol chasing down Blakey deep in Hawthorn’s forward 50.
Chol managed to pin both of Blakey’s arms in the tackle, bringing the speedy defender to the ground and earning his side a free kick and an opportunity at goal. However, the nature of the tackle, which saw Blakey’s head in a vulnerable position, raised eyebrows. The Hawthorn forward’s attempt to roll Blakey, coupled with the fact that Blakey’s arms were held high, meaning he had his hands free to attempt a disposal, were key factors in the MRO’s assessment.
The MRO’s report detailed the incident, stating: “The incident involving Hawthorn’s Mabior Chol and the Sydney Swans’ Nick Blakey from the Second Quarter of Thursday night’s match was assessed by the Match Review Officer. Blakey has possession of the ball and Chol approaches from behind, tackling Blakey to ground. It was the view of the MRO that Chol did not use excessive force in tackling Blakey and his actions were not unreasonable in the circumstances. No further action was taken.” This decision means Chol will face no suspension or financial penalty for the high-contact tackle.
Other MRO Decisions: Fines for Swans Players
While Chol escaped scrutiny, two of his opponents from the Sydney Swans did not. Tall defender Tom McCartin was handed a $1,500 fine for staging in the fourth quarter. McCartin opted to take an early plea, reducing his fine to $1,000.
His teammate Angus Sheldrick also faced a financial penalty, fined $1,500 for careless contact with an umpire during the opening term of the match. Sheldrick’s infraction involved an accidental but direct physical interaction with an umpire, which is taken seriously by the league. These fines serve as a reminder to players about the importance of maintaining respect for umpires and adhering to rules regarding simulation on the field.
The MRO’s ongoing role in the AFL is crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of the game. By carefully reviewing incidents, the MRO aims to ensure fair play and protect players from unnecessary risks. In this instance, the MRO’s thorough assessment of Chol’s tackle concluded that while it was a high-risk manoeuvre, it did not cross the threshold for a reportable offence under the current AFL rules. The focus remains on the intent and execution of the tackle, with the MRO determining that Chol’s actions were not reckless or overly forceful, and that Blakey’s arms being pinned high allowed him some agency in the situation. This outcome highlights the nuanced nature of tackle interpretations within the sport.
