Zach Merrett

Bombers to challenge Zach Merrett suspension, two fined by MRO

The MRO laid three charges from Saturday’s action.

Published by
Danielle Sorati

Essendon will challenge Zach Merrett's rough conduct charge by the MRO after his tackle on Tom Sparrow from Saturday afternoon's match at Adelaide Oval.

The MRO graded the final term incident as careless conduct, medium impact, high contact. Sparrow wasn't concussed in the tackle, getting to his feet to take the free kick in the aftermath.

The Bombers confirmed on Monday morning that they will challenge the charge at the AFL Tribunal this week, hoping to clear their captain's one-game suspension.

If unsuccessful, the suspension will see Merrett miss Essendon's Anzac Day clash against Collingwood, but will be available to return for Round 7 against Geelong.

Merrett is the most recent player to be suspended by the MRO for a dangerous tackle, with Will Day and Gary Rohan both handed bans last week for respective Round 4 incidents.

Elsewhere, Angus Brayshaw has been charged with tripping Sam Draper in the fourth quarter of the Saturday afternoon clash, handed a $1500 financial sanction.

Port Adelaide's Dylan Williams has also been charged with tripping by the MRO, handed a $1500 sanction for his third quarter incident with Bulldog Mitch Hannan.

Published by
Danielle Sorati