Brownlow Medallists Jimmy Bartel and James Hird have urged the AFL to take decisive action against players who feign head injuries to win free kicks following tackles. They observe that this trend is becoming more prevalent, especially with the league’s increased vigilance on sling tackles.
Recent incidents featuring Brisbane’s Lachie Neale and Carlton’s Adam Cerra attracted scrutiny when both players were seen clutching their heads after being tackled but continued to play without immediate concussion checks. While their heads struck the ground and the tackler was subsequently suspended for a game, neither player was attempting to con players into earning free kicks.
Bartel highlighted that while he respects the impact of tackles, he’s concerned about players who hold their heads after being tackled yet quickly resume play. He mentioned on Nine’s Eddie and Jimmy podcast, “If you’re grabbing your head, and you stay down, you can’t look up for the free kick and then play on the next 15 minutes.” He believes such behaviour is becoming increasingly common.
Hird proposed an even stricter measure, suggesting that any player who grabs their head after a tackle should be required to leave the field to undergo a 20-minute concussion assessment. He stated, “If someone grabs their head, you’re off and get a test, son,” implying that the fear of missing out on play would discourage players from feigning injuries. Hird expressed his disdain for similar behaviours seen in soccer, where players exaggerate contact to influence officiating.
As an assistant coach for Port Melbourne in the VFL, Hird noted that some tactics are shifting; they advise players against engaging in tackles where head contact could be perceived, which has led to an uptick in free kick awards for head-high tackles. He shared his frustration over the frequency of these penalties, urging players to adapt their techniques.
Both Bartel and Hird are adamant about maintaining the integrity of the game and discourage any kind of simulation that detracts from the sport’s spirit. Their proposed changes aim not only to safeguard players’ welfare but also to preserve the authenticity of the contest within Australian Rules Football.