Adam Kingsley has referenced the “Toby tax” sentiment in support of Toby Greene, as the GWS captain faces scrutiny for high contact with Carlton’s Jordan Boyd.
Greene collided with Boyd in a marking contest during the final quarter as the Giants’ winning streak in the AFL season ended with a defeat against Carlton at Docklands Stadium on Saturday.
Greene was going for the ball and leaped for a mark, turning his body at the last moment before colliding with Boyd, who was running back.
Boyd received a free kick after being hit in the head, but seemed to have no adverse effects from the contact.
However, the Giants now face an anxious wait to see if Greene and Jesse Hogan will be cleared to play their next game against the Brisbane Lions on Anzac Day in Canberra.
Hogan will be under scrutiny for a blow to Blues defender Lewis Young’s face during a scuffle in the goal square in the final quarter.
Despite Greene’s history of run-ins with the AFL match review officer and tribunal, GWS coach Kingsley is firm in his belief that the star player should not face repercussions for the recent incident.
“There won’t be anything in that,” Kingsley stated after the Giants’ loss.
“He’s allowed to contest the ball, isn’t he? He’s allowed to launch at the ball?
“And if you’re running and launching at the ball, and you’ve got your eyes for the ball, and you’re trying to take a chest mark, and you get knocked … free kick against?
“It’s hard being Toby.”
The collision between Greene and Boyd drew comparisons to a previous incident that resulted in Essendon’s Peter Wright receiving a four-match ban.
Kingsley was direct when asked if it is challenging for players leading for the ball. “No, just Toby,” he responded.
Carlton coach Michael Voss, who was near the Greene-Boyd collision, praised Boyd for his strong defensive performance after he successfully contained Greene in the second half.
“That was a crucial role for us,” Voss commented. “Greene is a fantastic player, very dangerous … and Boydy did an excellent job.”
AAP
Sports content to make you think… or allow you not to. A newsletter delivered each Saturday.
