Dan Houston suspended for five games by AFL Tribunal

Port Adelaide defender Dan Houston has been handed a five-match suspension due to a collision that resulted in Adelaide Crows Izak Rankine getting a concussion during round 23 of the AFL Premiership.

The AFL Tribunal made the decision to suspend Houston, effectively bringing his season to an end.

The incident occurred in the third quarter when Houston’s collision caused Rankine to hit his head on the ground.

This led to an altercation among players and left Rankine unconscious on the field.

The Tribunal emphasised the seriousness of the collision and Houston’s failure to fulfill his duty of care.

“We consider the appropriate sanction is five weeks for the reasons set out above,” the statement read.

“His carelessness was significant, the impact was severe. The immediate consequences for Rankine were evident, he was concussed, it appears his shoulder was hurt and there was the potential for more serious injury.

“We do not consider the circumstances give rise to exceptional and compelling circumstances.

“We do not consider the consequence of missing finals and potentially a grand final impacts the sanction that should be imposed, particularly for such a serious breach and such a significant injury.”

Houston’s suspension means he will miss the rest of the 2024 season and could potentially prevent him from participating in the Grand Final, where Port Adelaide are currently paying $7 with the top Australian bookmakers to claim the 2024 Premiership.

This ruling signifies a moment in the AFL’s efforts to prevent dangerous plays and safeguard player well-being.

Port Adelaide has not yet revealed whether they will challenge this decision but with much at stake as they approach finals, it is crucial for them to make a decision.

The absence of Houston will pose a challenge for the Power as they navigate through the finals without one of their defenders.

With rumours circling that Houston wants to shift back to Victoria next year, he could have very well played his last game for Port Adelaide Power.

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