Neale's clean record may free him for grand final
Lachie Neale has never been suspended in 320 games. Brisbane will argue his clean record justifies overturning his one-game ban.
The dual Brownlow medallist was suspended for a gut punch during Saturday's preliminary final against Hawthorn. Neale will miss his spot in the grand final against Fremantle.
Brisbane will appeal at the tribunal using a rule for players with clean records. Brisbane's history can count as exceptional and compelling circumstances.
Scott Pendlebury escaped suspension this season using the same clause after a bump. Other players got suspended for similar off-the-ball hits this year.
They are unlikely to accept Lachie Neale getting special treatment. Former St Kilda captain Nick Riewoldt said subjective rules create openings to be manipulated.
He expects the Lions' best chance lies in exactly this argument.
- 320
- Career games without suspension
- Jack Ginnivan (Hawthorn)
- Opponent in preliminary final
- Scott Pendlebury
- Precedent player
Why it mattersIf Neale's appeal fails, Brisbane plays without one of its star midfielders. If it succeeds, Fremantle faces its former player at full strength.
