THREE Brisbane Lions players suspended for striking by MRP

Harris Andrews pursues Western Bulldogs forward Rhylee West on Saturday.
Harris Andrews pursues Western Bulldogs forward Rhylee West on Saturday.BRADLEY KANARIS / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

Harris Andrews, Zac Bailey and Darcy Gardiner have all been handed down bans by the Match Review Panel (MRP) for striking reports in Saturday's narrow home loss to the Western Bulldogs.

Andrews can accept a three-game suspension from the AFL for his hit on Artie Jones, which was classified as a careless, high contact hit with severe impact. 

Bailey also went on report in the third quarter for intentional but low impact and high contact on Michael Sellwood and was offered a one-game suspension by the MRP, as was Gardiner for what was deemed a medium impact but careless strike on Bulldogs star forward Aaron Naughton

Brisbane had not declared at time of publication whether they would challenge any of the suspensions, but it is an enormous blow to the reigning Premiers who have also lost Hugh McCluggage to a calf injury. 

All four players will miss next Saturday night's trip to the SCG if the three accept their sanctions, whilst Andrews would also miss a post-bye Round 3 trip to Marvel Stadium (St Kilda) and the annual Easter Thursday home game against Collingwood.

Chances are you’re about to lose.

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au