Essendon coach Brad Scott has urged the AFL to reform its tribunal system, arguing that it has become excessively challenging for individuals to appeal charges.
Following an incident involving one of his players, Harry Jones, who was charged with rough conduct against Kangaroo Zac Fisher during round 10, Scott voiced his frustration. The dangerous tackle resulted in Jones being deemed to have committed careless conduct with medium impact and high contact.
Despite the charge, Essendon chose not to appeal the decision. Consequently, Jones received a one-week suspension, sidelining him for their upcoming match against Richmond on Saturday night.
Scott disclosed that he had consulted with legal representatives and a biomechanist regarding the possibility of challenging the ban. However, based on their advice, they ultimately decided against contesting it.
Expressing his disappointment, Scott emphasized the importance of focusing on controlling what is within their power. He acknowledged his role as a coach rather than a legal expert or biomechanist, highlighting the limitations in their ability to influence the outcome.
Unfortunately, the advice from the experts indicated that there was no chance of overturning the charge under the current rules and tribunal operation.
While the Bombers disagree with the suspension for Harry Jones, they felt they had no realistic chance of success within the existing system.
Scott expressed his desire to meet with league officials once the season concludes. He acknowledged the AFL’s intention to discourage clubs from challenging every MRO decision, which he understands, but hopes for an opportunity to discuss potential improvements.
Scott highlighted that while not every case warrants a challenge, the current system is too punitive to justify challenging every incident. Despite considering challenging Jones’s suspension on principle, the advice they received suggested it would not be a viable course of action.
It’s worth noting that the incident between Jones and Fisher, which occurred in the second quarter of the Bombers’ victory over North Melbourne, did not lead to a free kick being awarded to Fisher.
