Richmond youngster Tyler Sonsie is facing a lengthy suspension after a brutal off-the-strike in the VFL on Sunday.
With his side leading North Melbourne by 12 points late in the contest, Sonsie lashed out at opponent Tom Cappellari with a left-handed strike as you can see in the video above.
He collected Cappellari flush on the jaw with the Kangaroo dropping to the ground in pain.
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Cappellari was eventually able to get to his feet and take his kick, but the incident is certain to result in a suspension for Sonsie.
“Tyler Sonsie you imagine is going to have a date with the VFL tribunal,” the commentator said.
Tyler Sonsie’s strike on Tom Cappellari in the VFL Credit: Channel 7
The Tigers did qualify for new-look VFL finals wildcard round, which start next week, but any multi-game ban could see the 20-year-old miss the start of next year’s AFL season.
The VFL match review system differs slightly to the AFL and players can receive a discount with an early guilty plea.
But he could also be referred directly to the tribunal.
Sonsie was pushing for a recall to the senior side after a team-high 23 disposals and a goal in the victory.
He was taken with pick No.28 in the 2021 draft and has played 10 senior games in his two years in the AFL.
The Tigers will need to make at least two changes to their AFL team after Trent Cotchin and Jack Riewoldt retired following Saturday’s win over North Melbourne.
With finals out of the equation for both clubs, Saturday’s 14.17 (101) to 10.12 (72) win became an emotional celebration for the Tigers faithful, who cheered off the much-loved pair as winners at the MCG for the last time.
Some late possessions to Cotchin and a signature high-flying Riewoldt mark in the final term drew raucous applause from the Tiger army, who stayed long after the final siren as the departing greats completed a lap of honour.
“It was an incredibly emotional week,” Richmond interim coach Andrew McQualter said post-match.
“In the rooms now … to be honest, it feels like after a grand final.”
– with AAP
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