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Tiger backs Swans' Franklin over AFL bump

Richmond's Connor Menadue has gone in to bat for Sydney star Lance Franklin, who was reported for a high bump on the young Tiger at the MCG.

Lance Franklin
Sydney superstar Lance Franklin's chances of avoiding an AFL suspension have received a boost. (AAP)

Sydney superstar Lance Franklin's chances of avoiding an AFL suspension have received a boost thanks to Richmond's Connor Menadue.

Franklin was reported for rough conduct on Menadue in the second quarter of the Swans' stunning come-from-behind win at the MCG on Saturday.

Menadue was taken high by Franklin as he bent over to collect a loose ball.

A bump to the head would likely see Franklin offered a suspension by the AFL match review panel, but the young Tiger shed further light on the incident on Sunday.

"I was alright (this morning) it was more my shoulder than my head," Menadue told Fox Sports News.

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"I'm a bit sore but it's alright.

"I had a couple of mates send (the vision) to me and get into me a bit.

"But it's alright - it was more my shoulder. It should be right.

"I wasn't dazed or anything ... it was just an impact then it got a bit sore as the game went on."

The resurgent Swans are one game outside the eight after the nine-point win and will be desperate to have Franklin available for Friday night's clash against Essendon at the SCG.

Asked if he'd be OK if Franklin avoided a suspension, Menadue replied: "I'm pretty easy with that stuff ... it's footy. It's a tough game."

Franklin's report is one of several incidents to be assessed by the MRP on Monday.

West Coast's Luke Shuey will come under scrutiny for his high bump on Geelong's Patrick Dangerfield on Thursday night.

A skirmish between Eagles veteran Sam Mitchell and Cats skipper Joel Selwood will also be looked at.

Former St Kilda captain Nick Riewoldt retaliated to some trademark Scott Thompson niggle with a swinging punch to the North Melbourne defender's back.

Gold Coast's Matt Rosa will be in trouble for his round-arm blow to the face of Carlton's Dale Thomas, who will also be scrutinised for his front-on bump to the Suns' Adam Saad.


2 min read

Published

Source: AAP



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