Swans Forward Aaron Francis Suspended for One Match Following Controversial Incident Involving Bulldogs Star

Sydney Swans forward Aaron Francis has found himself sidelined with a one-match suspension following his team’s defeat to the Bulldogs.

With just 45 seconds remaining in the third quarter, the umpire brought the ball into Sydney’s forward 50.

As Brodie Grundy and Tim English contested the tap, Francis was seen delivering a stiff-arm hit to Lachlan Bramble’s midsection from behind.

This act went unnoticed initially, as Isaac Heeney received a free kick for a high tackle and subsequently converted a goal.

However, replays later highlighted Francis’s infringement.

“It looks like Aaron Francis might be in hot water; that was a swinging arm to Lachie Bramble’s ribs off the ball … completely unnecessary,” said Jason Dunstall on Fox Footy.

The match review officer deemed Francis’s action intentional and classified it as medium impact body contact.

In the aftermath of the match, Ben Dixon labelled the incident a “WWE move,” while Nathan Buckley described it as “quite significant, and clearly deliberate.”

Jordan Lewis anticipated a fine but fell slightly short with his prediction.

“We don’t want players engaging in that sort of behaviour … a substantial fine to send a message that this type of conduct is unacceptable would suffice,” he commented.

In addition to the suspension, Francis received two $1,000 fines for his involvement in a melee and tussling with Rory Lobb, who was also awarded the same penalties.

Tom Papley was fined $1,000 for instigating a melee in the first quarter, while Isaac Heeney received a $2,000 penalty for striking Edward Richards during the third quarter.

Bramble wrapped up the match with one goal and 28 possessions to his name.