Fremantle Star Faces Three-Game Suspension for Disturbing Blow that Resulted in Nick Vlastuin’s Broken Nose

Fremantle’s Patrick Voss faces a spell on the sidelines after receiving a three-match suspension due to a serious strike on Richmond’s Nick Vlastuin.

The incident occurred in the final quarter of the Dockers’ convincing 61-point victory over Richmond last Sunday, when Voss swung his arm and struck Vlastuin in the face.

As a result, the Tigers defender was left bloodied on the ground with a broken nose and had to leave the field accompanied by medical staff.

The match review officer determined the incident to be severe impact, high contact, and careless conduct, resulting in the three-match ban.

Richmond coach Adem Yze supported Voss, refuting claims of malice or intentionality behind the tackle when he addressed the media regarding Vlastuin’s condition post-game.

“His nose is a bit crooked, but that’s just part of the game,” Yze remarked about Vlastuin’s injury after the match. “He’s a tough player who often puts his head in situations where it perhaps shouldn’t be.”

Vlastuin passed all concussion protocols, leaving only a blood rule preventing him from continuing, and while he has some swelling around the eye, he is expected to recover.

Fremantle will have a day to decide if they wish to contest the suspension.

If both the club and Voss choose to accept the three-game punishment, the young forward will be unavailable for selection until Fremantle’s encounter with Collingwood on May 8.