I think these calls are among the most difficult for MRO. To me it’s a clear slinging action, O’Meara had the arm pinned, but there was probably marginal impact. This could have gone either way, and if the umpire hadn’t paid the free kick then perhaps this sneaks past the MRO.
But if you’re going to lean one way or the other, then I think the MRO / AFL has to lean towards this being a suspension just based on the consequences. A touch more force, or a slightly different body angle, and Spargo gets a serious concussion which can have serious consequences for his career and health. With the suspension, Freo loses its 16th most important player for one home game against a team 15th on the ladder.
And I say all this despite irrationally despising Spargo beyond all reason. I can’t really put my finger on why. In fact, one of the upsides of the suspension is that re-watching the incident you get to see Spargo bad miss a crucial shot at goal, which is quite satisfying.
