St Kilda will join Essendon in appealing to the Tribunal this week in an effort to clear their key forward for Saturday’s game at Marvel Stadium.
Max King, the Saints’ main spearhead, received a one-match suspension for rough conduct during Thursday’s convincing win over Collingwood. The Saints confirmed on Monday their intention to contest the ban, aiming to enable the 23-year-old to participate in the upcoming clash against the Bombers.
The incident occurred when King collided with Magpie Finlay Macrae in the fourth quarter of the game, resulting in high contact, medium impact, and careless conduct as assessed by the Match Review Officer. AFL footage showed King’s raised forearm making contact with Macrae’s neck just after he disposed of the ball.
Despite King’s pivotal role in the Saints’ victory, contributing three goals, it marks his first suspension in his 73-game career.
Meanwhile, the Bombers are also preparing for a Tribunal hearing this week, following forward Peter Wright’s direct referral for his collision with Sydney’s Harry Cunningham.
St Kilda is already facing absences due to Mason Wood’s broken collarbone and concussion, as well as Liam Henry’s hamstring injury, both of which are expected to sideline them for six weeks.
Additionally, Jimmy Webster, King’s teammate, has five matches remaining from a seven-match suspension received for a late, high hit on Jy Simpkin during the AAMI Community Series.
With both teams holding a 1-1 record this season, the upcoming clash promises to be an intriguing encounter.
