Liam Stocker faces MRO scrutiny for tackle on Eric Hipwood

June 24, 2023 9:56 am.by James Herbert

St Kilda’s Liam Stocker is anxiously awaiting the decision of the Match Review Officer (MRO) after being reported for a dangerous tackle on Eric Hipwood, a prominent player for the Lions, during their Friday night game at Marvel Stadium.

Just before halftime, Stocker grabbed one of Hipwood’s arms and forcefully slung him to the ground at Marvel Stadium, resulting in a free kick.

Fortunately for Stocker, Hipwood escaped injury and was able to take the free kick.

Liam Stocker was reported for a dangerous tackle on Eric Hipwood. #AFLSaintsLions pic.twitter.com/kGW0NthPqr

— AFL (@AFL) June 23, 2023

The AFL has taken a stricter stance on dangerous tackles this year, resulting in 21 suspensions thus far in 2023 for such offences.

During the halftime analysis on Fox Footy’s Jon Ralph suggested that Stocker might avoid suspension despite the reckless nature of the act, as it didn’t appear that Hipwood’s head made contact with the ground.

“Liam Stocker just didn’t read the room – you don’t pin any arms. You don’t forcefully dump your opponent or put them in a vulnerable position,” stated Ralph.

Garry Lyon, a former player for the Demons, argued that the act was an obvious sling tackle, in line with the league’s efforts to eliminate such tackles, regardless of whether Hipwood’s head hit the ground.

Triple-premiership-winning Lion Jonathan Brown added that “Perhaps a fine would be sufficient, but if we’re trying to penalise the action, he should get suspended.”

Former Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley pointed out that if Hipwood had lowered his head, Stocker would undoubtedly be facing a suspension.

Earlier in the game, St Kilda’s key forward Max King was also questionably reported for an incident in which it didn’t appear that he made contact with Ryan Lester.

Ralph commented that this report “may well be the worst match day report of all-time.”

Max King has been reported for striking. #AFLSaintsLions pic.twitter.com/kEiSq2aIjM

— AFL (@AFL) June 23, 2023

Brisbane went on to cement themselves in the top four with a 28-point victory over the Saints on Friday night, with thanks to Eric Hipwood bagging four goals for the third time in a match this year.

Following the win, the Brisbane Lions are currently paying $5.00 with the AFL betting sites to claim the 2023 Premiership.