Search

show me:

Blues to seek AFL explanation on Cripps

3 minute read

Carlton are furious with the ongoing physical treatment of star ball-winner Patrick Cripps and will seek AFL clarification on the matter.

PATRICK CRIPPS.
PATRICK CRIPPS. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Carlton will again raise issues with the AFL umpiring department over opponents' physical treatment of captain Patrick Cripps.

Footage of North Melbourne players manhandling Cripps at stoppages during the Blues' seven-point win at the Gabba on Saturday raised the ire of fans on social media and didn't escape the attention of club officials.

On Monday, Blues football operations manager Brad Lloyd demanded ball players be given a fair go.

Lloyd said he stays in regular contact with the AFL umpiring department and will touch base again this week to seek clarification on why Cripps isn't being awarded more free kicks.

"One of the reasons we love watching (Marcus) Bontempelli and Patty Cripps for us is because they're ball-hunters and the way they play," Lloyd told SEN radio.

"You just like to see those guys get a really good run at the footy without being impeded.

"When players take their eye off the contest and just stare straight at that type of player, those bear hugs, where they wrap their arms around, they're the things we've got to watch.

"We have pretty regular contact with the umpiring department and they're pretty good to deal with ... we'll continue to have those conversations."

Pressed specifically on whether he will raise the perceived unfair treatment of Cripps with the AFL, Lloyd said: "Yeah, we'll have a chat with them, yeah."

Lloyd refused to buy into the furore surrounding former Carlton skipper Marc Murphy, who was accused of diving during the win over North Melbourne.

The Blues are in the unusual situation of hosting Hawthorn in a 'home' game at Perth's Optus Stadium on Friday and could welcome back Harry McKay.

The key forward missed last week with a knee injury sustained during training and would be a logical replacement for Mitch McGovern, who may be sidelined by a hamstring complaint.

McGovern was hurt during the first half of the North Melbourne game and did not return after half-time.

He will have scans this week to determine the extent of the injury.

Think. Is this a bet you really want to place?

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au