Tribunal update: Peter Wright
AFL Tribunal makes decision on key forward.
By essendonfc.com.au
2 hrs ago
Essendon has accepted the four-match ban offered to forward Peter Wright at the AFL Tribunal on Tuesday night.
Wright’s collision with Sydney’s Harry Cunningham in round two was graded as careless conduct, severe impact and high contact by the AFL Match Review Officer, referred directly to the Tribunal as a result.
Wright accepted all aspects of his charge at the hearing, however his challenge to shorten the length of the four-match ban was unsuccessful.
The 27-year-old expressed his disappointment at the decision but took ownership for the incident, again apologising to Cunningham and acknowledging the league’s approach to head-high collisions.
“I want to extend my thoughts to Harry and wish him a speedy return to football,” Wright said.
“I’m disappointed to be missing the next four games and the findings reflect the changing nature of community standards when it comes to the adjudication of the game. It’s clear that all players need to adjust to this.
“I’m disappointed not to be with my teammates for the next four games but look forward to returning soon.”
Addressing the media on Tuesday night, Wright said he’ll use the outcome to inform his approach to similar in-game situations going forward.
With a big run of games coming up for the Bombers, Wright wants to ensure he’s ready to help the side once his suspension is completed.
“(It’s) something I need to reflect upon. The message is that kind of contest is not really acceptable and we need to put the players’ care first and foremost,” Wright said.
“In the current landscape of football, everything’s so tight and there’s really even competition, so all the games are going to be hotly contested. As a footballer, you want to be a part of that and helping your team produce results.
“It’s incredibly disappointing, but we’ll have to adjust and move forward.”
