Ballantyne in more tribunal trouble
Fremantle's Hayden Ballantyne could be spending more time on the AFL sidelines after an incident from yesterday's win over Adelaide was referred straight to the tribunal.
Ballantyne was scrutinised by the league's match review panel for rough conduct towards Crow Matthew Jaensch at Paterson Stadium.
If banned it will be the second time in seven rounds that the Dockers forward has had to sit out this season.
He was rubbed out for a match in round five for two incidents in the clash with Sydney - striking and kneeing offences against Swans defender Rhyce Shaw.
See the Ballantyne-Jaensch collision here
However, the incident looked innocuous, especially when compared to other bumps during round 12 that weren't acted on by the review panel, particularly one involving Sydney's Lance Franklin.
Former AFL hardman Dermott Brereton, speaking on Fox Footy, described the Ballantyne-Jaensch contact as a "fair bump".
In its summary of findings, the panel reported. "In summary, the matter has been directly referred to the Tribunal for its determination and he cannot accept an early plea on this matter."
Hayden Ballantyne bumps Matthew Jaensch at Patersons Stadium yesterday.
Ballantyne is understood to have 87.5 carryover points from the incidents earlier this season. These will be taken into account should the tribunal decided he should be sanctioned.
In a statement the AFL said, "Ballantyne has been referred to the Tribunal as the MRP believed the points, coupled with his record, would've meant too severe a penalty".
Tiger Ty Vickery can accept a $1800 sanction for misconduct against Michael Firrito, and can also accept a two-match ban for striking the Knagroos defender.
Richmond's Matt Thomas can accept a one-game suspension for rough conduct towards Roos veteran Brent Harvey.
North Melbourne defender Scott Thompson can accept a reprimand for striking Jack Riewoldt.
