Gary Ablett under scrutiny for ‘clumsy’ strike in Geelong-Gold Coast clash

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Gary Ablett under scrutiny for ‘clumsy’ strike in Geelong-Gold Coast clash image

Geelong veteran Gary Ablett faces a nervous wait after he was involved in another controversial incident that is certain to attract the attention of the Match Review Officer.

The star midfielder avoided a one-match ban for elbowing Essendon’s Dylan Shiel in Round 7.

He sparked more controversy the following week with a similar challenge on North Melbourne’s Sam Wright, however, he was not charged.

But the 35-year-old’s luck could be set to run out after he appeared to punch Suns player Anthony Miles in the jaw during the Cats’ 27-point victory on Saturday.

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Miles reacted angrily after Ablett grabbed his jumper the third quarter, shoving the Geelong legend three times.

Ablett responded with a left-handed swipe that missed the target before following up with a closed right fist to the jaw.

The Suns were paid a free kick but Ablett was not reported despite replays showing he connected with Miles’ face, who fell to the ground despite the low impact of the strike.

Ablett played down his latest incident after the game.

“Obviously I was a little bit clumsy there and I gave away a free kick,” Ablett told Fox Footy.

“It was just undisciplined ... I’m disappointed with it, but it’s just a free kick.”

 

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