Young Western Bulldogs forward Sam Darcy has received a two-match suspension for his late bump on Collingwood’s Brayden Maynard during Friday night’s game. The incident, classified as careless conduct with high impact and high contact, occurred early in the first term at Marvel Stadium when Darcy jumped into Maynard’s back as he took a mark just outside Collingwood’s forward 50.
Maynard immediately went down in pain, leading to an all-in brawl. He was awarded a 50-meter penalty for the act and later had to undergo a SCAT5 concussion test after scoring a goal. Fortunately, Maynard passed his HIA and returned to the game later in the first term.
Despite the suspension, Darcy had a notable performance, kicking three goals and having 12 disposals, including the sealing goal that led to an 18-point victory for the Bulldogs.
The suspension is a significant blow for the Bulldogs, who are already facing a shortage of forward players. Aaron Naughton remains sidelined with a knee injury, Cody Weightman is out with elbow issues, Ed Richards is dealing with his second concussion of the year, and Tom Liberatore is also recovering from head injuries. Additionally, Laith Vandermeer and James Harmes suffered hamstring injuries in the win.
Meanwhile, Bulldog Taylor Duryea avoided suspension but received a fine for rough conduct on Pie Nick Daicos. Duryea’s off-the-ball arm was deemed careless conduct with low impact and high contact.
