Tom Hawkins called it an accident and coach Chris Scott hopes common sense will prevail when the forward’s contact with an umpire during Geelong’s big win over Greater Western Sydney is assessed.
Hawkins was in outstanding form with four goals in the 14.9 (93) to 4.8 (32) win at Kardinia Park on Friday night.
But the big Cat faces a nervous wait for match review officer Michael Christian’s assessment of a second-quarter incident.
Hawkins appeared to push umpire Dean Margetts’ hand away after he had a free kick and a 50m penalty paid against him for driving his knee into Nick Haynes’ backside.
Margetts can be overheard warning Hawkins not to touch him on the Seven Network broadcast.
“I actually thought initially it was an opposition hand, so I didn’t mean to make any contact,” Hawkins told Seven after the game.
“I apologised to him after .. (it was) obviously accidental.
“That’s what happens in footy … heat of the moment.”
If Christian finds that Hawkins’ action was intentional he can be referred directly to the AFL Tribunal.
But Scott felt the fact Margetts didn’t pay a secondary 50m penalty after Hawkins brushed his hand was telling.
“It’s a good observation that the umpire was really clear that it didn’t even warrant a further 50,” Scott said.
“If he had a problem with it he would’ve paid another 50. So I think that part’s pretty clear isn’t it? Common sense should take over at some point.”
Christian will hand down his findings on Saturday under the new streamlined match review procedures introduced this year.
The Cats improved to a 4-3 record after a win in which they had contributors across every line.
Mitch Duncan (33 disposals), Joel Selwood (25) and Tim Kelly (30) led the way in the middle, while Tom Stewart and Jack Henry were in everything down back.
Patrick Dangerfield spent plenty of time inside the attacking 50 and finished with 27 touches and two goals.
“It was a pretty complete (performance),” Scott said.
“Our senior players were disappointed with their performances in some of the fundamentals last week (in the loss to Sydney) and were determined to turn it around.
“They were instrumental in the planning and preparation for this week.
“I came to the ground with great confidence because when our senior players have that attitude they generally deliver.”