While the Swans cruised to an impressive 53-point win over the Western Bulldogs on Friday night, the team will have a nervous wait after Tom Papley was replaced on report early in the third quarter.
The reportable incident occurred after half time, when Papley made high, front-on contact with Bulldog Josh Dunkley which resulted in a free kick. Dunkley went to ground after the clash, but remained on the field.
While Papley was immediately reported following the incident, those watching admitted that it was unlikely the Swan would be facing any time on the sidelines.
“Nothing to see here I don’t think,” Jonathan Brown said on Fox Footy’s coverage.
“He was genuinely going for the football here, so that’s a genuine contest.
“Obviously he was a little bit higher than Dunkley; they both had their heads’ down going for the football. To be honest, I think he was at the football first.
“I’m not sure what the umpire was doing reporting him.
“I think that will be thrown out this week.”
The 25-year-old had an exceptional night, finishing with 24 disposals and kicking 2.5 in a dominant display.
While Papley is unlikely to garner any scrutiny from the MRO on the incident, the Swans will be cautious with their star after a third term injury in which Papley looked to have hurt his shoulder after landing heavily in a marking contest. The 2021 All Australian played out the 53-point win despite the concern.
The MRO findings are due on Saturday evening.