Saturday July 7, 2012 - 1.45pm EST
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The umpires have stood their ground on a controversial decision against Scott McMahon in North’s win over St Kilda.
Boss Jeff Gieschen says a third quarter free kick against the defender for bumping Nick Riewoldt was the right call.
McMahon made contact moments after courageously running back into a pack to spoil, leaving the Saints’ captain on his haunches.
“He ran into Riewoldt and obviously hurt him and winded him a little bit,” Gieschen said of the initial incident.
But it was the aftermath that drew the penalty.
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“He (Riewoldt) was just minding his own business trying to get his breath, then Scott (McMahon) ran up and bumped him the way he did.
“That falls into the prohibited context area. We don’t want to see players who are injured or a little bit distressed being met or run into by other players.
“Clearly in that there wasn’t a lot of force, or a lot of spite in it, but it was just a silly little incident.”
McMahon’s bump brought about an immediate response from Riewoldt, who leapt to his feet and returned fire.
“Nick Riewoldt got upset and chased his opponent, but we just don’t want to see that (the bump). Players have got a duty of care if someone’s injured or distressed, just to leave them alone.”
At a vital time in the game with just 11-points separating the teams, Riewoldt’s corresponding kick from outside 50 metres missed.
Were the umpires right? What do you think?
Have your say below.
