Buddy, Bartel clear; Lewis faces ban

TWO OF the game’s biggest names are in the clear, but there’s mixed news for Hawthorn fans – that’s the outcome after the AFL’s match review panel completed its review from round 15 on Monday.

Star Hawk Lance Franklin and Geelong’s Brownlow medalist Jimmy Bartel have both been spared trips to the tribunal after the panel dismissed their match-day reports, but Franklin's teammate Jordan Lewis could be facing a week on the sidelines.

Bartel, carrying 88 demerit points after being found guilty of tripping earlier this season, was staring down the barrel of a suspension had he been found guilty after being booked for engaging in rough conduct against Brisbane Lion Luke Power.

The match review panel deemed that the impact was below that required to sustain the report.

While Franklin had been booked on a rough conduct charge against Drew Petrie, the panel ruled his action was not considered unreasonable in the circumstances, as the impact was below that required to sustain the report.

The spearhead’s teammate, Lewis, was not so lucky. The 23-year-old is facing a one-week ban after cameras picked up a strike on North Melbourne’s Michael Firrito in Hawthorn’s come-from-behind win over the Roos, putting the midfielder’s place at risk for this week’s crucial clash against Collingwood.

Lewis won’t be risking anything – other more demerit points – by taking his case to the tribunal. He can accept one week or, if found guilty, still cop just one match.

The only other player charged from this week’s round of matches is Adelaide forward James Sellar.

The Crow has been charged with a first offence for making negligent contact with an umpire, and given it is his first offence, he can accept a $1950 sanction with an early plea.