The AFL has slapped Geelong with a suspended fine of $2000 for runner Nigel Lappin’s clash with Mitch Robinson.
Lappin was shoved out of the way by Carlton’s Robinson when the pair collided in the dying seconds of last Friday night’s thriller at Etihad Stadium.
The fine will be fully suspended for 12 months, with the Cats only having to cough up the cash if there are any similar incidents over the next year.
“The AFL accepts that the Geelong runner stumbled after tripping on the foot of a Geelong player and inadvertently moved into the path of (Robinson),” AFL general manager football operations Mark Evans said.
“But all club officials must not put themselves in any position where they may interfere with the duties of an umpire or an opposition player’s role in the game.”
Blues coach Mick Malthouse bristled about the clash following his side’s five-point loss.
“Robinson couldn’t get to the football in the last minute of the game … it should have been a free kick then, shouldn’t it?” Malthouse said.
Evans revealed the AFL contacted all 18 clubs this week regarding the responsibilities of runners, who are intended to pass on messages from coaches.
The AFL is in the process of re-examining its guidelines for runners.