ON TUESDAY night, the independent AFL Tribunal overturned the one-match suspension that had been imposed by the Match Review Officer on Willie Rioli, West Coast Eagles, for Engaging in Rough Conduct against Matthew Rowell, Gold Coast SUNS.

The AFL closely monitored the hearing and scrutinised the reasons of the Tribunal in this decision. While the AFL does not agree with the outcome of the hearing, it accepts the decision and confirms it will not appeal.

Due to the nature of the relevant appeal grounds available to it, the AFL considers that the prospects of a successful appeal in the circumstances are low and thus has determined not to appeal the Tribunal’s decision. The AFL considers that bringing an appeal without reasonable prospects of success is not an appropriate course for it to take.

The AFL remains strongly committed to reducing the incidence of head high contact and will continue to impose sanctions where it considers it is appropriate to do so and in accordance with the rules..

The hearing and determination by the independent AFL Tribunal of challenges brought by players in respect of decisions of the MRO is a long-established part of our important disciplinary system. The AFL strongly supports the AFL Tribunal and acknowledges the complexity of the task of determining the outcome of incidents such as the matter at hand.

For reference, click here for the reasons by the Tribunal Chairperson – developed in conjunction with the Tribunal jury members – for the cases heard at the Tribunal on Tuesday evening involving Adelaide Crows player Rory Sloane, Brisbane Lions player Mitch Robinson and West Coast Eagles player Willie Rioli.