AFL News

AFL issues “please explain” to trio of clubs surrounding concussion management protocols

Three clubs have cases to answers following Round 19.

Published by
Aidan Cellini

The AFL has confirmed it will issue "please explains" to Adelaide, Brisbane and Carlton in relation to three concerning incidents and the respective concussion management protocols that followed.

On Friday night, Crows captain Jordan Dawson collided with Essendon youngster Nate Caddy late in the third term and was gradually taken from the field after showing obvious comfort from the heavy hit.

Dawson then returned to the field for the start of the final quarter, which has come into question given he was eventually subbed off later in the game through concussion protocols.

SEE MORE: Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks addresses concussion drama

This has drawn scrutiny over the initial head assessment.

According to the club, the Adelaide captain said he self-reported symptoms after a contest with Nic Martin, which occurred early in the fourth term.

On Sunday, incidents involving Lions co-captain Harris Andrews and Blues key forward Harry McKay prompted the league to take action.

Andrews copped a heavy fall in the final quarter of the clash with Sydney and was visibly distressed, with Andrews undergoing a HIA before returning for the final minutes if the narrow win.

Lastly, McKay's incident, albeit approved by coach Michael Voss post-game, was somewhat distressing.

The key forward copped a whack in the nose in a marking contest and immediately fell to the ground.

McKay remained on the field for multiple minutes and even kicked a goal before being rushed from the field for a concussion assessment.

The test cleared the 2021 Coleman medallist of any concussive issues and he returned to play out the remainder of the game.

Carlton also followed up with tests on Monday and discovered no follow-up symptoms, making him available for Round 20.

More to come.

Published by
Aidan Cellini