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Simpson's bump warning for Eagles star

3 minute read

Liam Ryan copped a one-match ban for his high bump on Jason Johannisen and West Coast coach Adam Simpson says bumping is not worth the risk in the modern AFL.

LIAM RYAN
LIAM RYAN Picture: Will Russell/AFL Media/Getty Images

West Coast coach Adam Simpson says bumping an opponent is "too risky" when tackling is an option and has warned Eagles star Liam Ryan to change the way he attacks AFL contests.

Ryan was hit with a one-match suspension for rough conduct after he clipped Western Bulldogs speedster Jason Johannisen with a high bump during Sunday's match at Optus Stadium.

Johannisen had a sore jaw and was assessed by medical staff but played out the match, which the Dogs won by 55 points.

Match review officer Michael Christian graded Ryan's action as careless conduct, medium impact and high contact.

"Liam, in the past, has been a very good exponent of the hip and shoulder," Simpson said on AFL 360.

"If you don't get it right, you're more than likely going to get weeks.

"He should be tackling in that situation and unfortunately he didn't.

"There was another one where he was pretty close to giving another free kick away.

"We've spoken about it, we need to address it and it just can't be in the game anymore.

"It's too risky, so we'll learn from that."

The Ryan bump was similar to one that saw Collingwood's Jordan De Goey handed a one-match ban earlier this month.

If Ryan chooses not to challenge the suspension, he will miss West Coast's clash with Sydney at GMHBA Stadium on Sunday.

The important contest was relocated from the SCG because of the COVID-19 crisis in NSW and pits sixth against seventh as the race for finals spots heats up.

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