AFL MRO News: Sydney Swans midfielder under scrutiny following incident in Friday’s victory over Carlton Blues
Sydney Swans midfielder Chad Warner won his second straight Goodes-O'Loughlin medal with an amazing performance on Friday night. He got nine votes to finish ahead of teammates Isaac Heeney and James Rowbottom. The electric player had 28 disposals, three goals and also had 14 score involvements.
Heowever, he could be charged with striking for raising his forearm when he attempted to fend off Carlton's Marc Pittonet in the final quarter of their match against them.
Warner, who had already gained possession of the ball before losing it, came in contact with Pittonet's head and gave away a free-kick.
Although the incident looked unintentional, the midfielder will be desperate for the MRO to concur with that view and would rather face a fine than suspension as he continues to make his case for a Brownlow medal.
Swans clear up top with win over Carlton to break 78-year record
The Swans moved six points clear of second placed Essendon with their win against Carlton that also marked the first time since 1945 the club has won nine of its first 10 matches.
The Swans were trailing 27-1 in the opening term but scored 13 of the next 14 goals to lead the game. They barely headed the disposal count with 354 - 341 but headed the inside 50 count 60 - 49.
Sydney had three goals from Heeney and Warner, two from Amartey, Papley, McLean and one goal each from Jordon, Wicks, Cunningham and Rowbottom ended the match in their favour in a 17.15 (117) - 65 score.
They face the 11th placed Bulldogs, who also won their match against GWS Giants on Thursday, for the second part of the Sir Doug Nicholls round. They could get even better in the coming weeks as they expect the return of Luke Parker, Callum Mills and Tom McCartin from injury.