MRO Decisions: Comben Cleared, Others Fined

North Melbourne defender Charlie Comben has not received a sanction for a tackle on Melbourne recruit Brody Mihocek during a recent match simulation. The incident took place in the first quarter of Friday's game at Casey Fields.

Following the tackle, Mihocek reported blurred vision and was subsequently ruled out of play with a concussion.

Comben's Clearance

A medical report determined that Mihocek's concussion occurred in an incident prior to the tackle by Comben. The Match Review Officer (MRO) conducted a thorough review of the incident.

The MRO stated that Comben "did not use excessive force or place Mihocek in a vulnerable position."

The MRO further explained that Comben released Mihocek's arm before Mihocek hit the ground. This finding was crucial in concluding that the tackle was not related to the concussion Mihocek sustained, leading to Comben's clearance.

Other Sanctions

The Match Review Officer also handed down sanctions for other incidents that occurred during match simulations:

• Brisbane veteran Darcy Gardiner received a $1000 fine for abusive language directed towards an umpire. This incident took place in the third quarter of a match simulation against Carlton.
• Hawthorn forward Connor Macdonald also received a $1000 fine for careless contact with an umpire.