Richmond’s Tom Lynch in Hot Water Following Controversial High Shot on Tom de Koning

Richmond’s Tom Lynch finds himself anxiously awaiting news on whether he will need to present his case to the match review officer following a high hit on Tom de Koning.

Just after releasing the ball, de Koning was knocked to the ground at the MCG when his head collided with Lynch’s shoulder.

A replay of the incident raised concerns for both players, although de Koning quickly recovered and got back on his feet after the fall.

“He connects with Tom de Koning right on the jaw,” remarked Matt Hill on Fox Footy.

The ruckman was called to the Carlton bench shortly after, but did not undergo any concussion protocols while on the sidelines.

“Tom Lynch will definitely be on edge; he’ll be hoping to return to the field very soon,” David King commented following de Koning’s substitution.

Since no assessment was carried out, it suggests that the impact was on the lesser side – nonetheless, Lynch will have to wait for the MRO’s official decision to know his outcome.

“Tom de Koning has been cleared of any issues, but the MRO won’t be pleased with Lynch’s actions,” AFL reporter Mitch Cleary noted on X.

“Careless high contact with medium impact (considering the potential for injury) could result in a one-week suspension.”

In line with the AFL’s standards, two-time All Australian Leigh Montagna acknowledged Cleary’s viewpoint.

“It will be tough for him to evade sanction,” Montagna said.

“They might argue that even a minor push indicates he ought to have acted differently.

“This happens every year … The AFL maintains that a hip and shoulder brace is not acceptable. Players are expected to extend their arms. While I don’t personally agree with that, I’d brace as well.”