In a year where common sense reform has brought less Match Review Panel controversy than previous seasons, yesterday’s decision to ban Adelaide’s Rory Sloane for two weeks (one with an early plea) seems like an anomaly. 

The Crows star’s spoil left Port’s Brad Ebert with a cut face, and was therefore labelled careless conduct with medium impact to the head based on ‘the available video evidence and a medical report from Port Adelaide’.

The decision will rule Sloane out from contending for the Brownlow Medal, while an unsuccessful challenge will also mean he would miss Adelaide’s first final. EDIT: He’s not contesting it.

So how does the Sloane ban compare with some recent controversial MRP let-offs? Let’s go to the GIFs.

Jordan Lewis

Cleared
“Force used was below that required to constitute a reportable offence”

Brent Harvey

$1000 fine
Low, careless impact to the head

Sam Mitchell

Cleared
“Open hand in a pushing motion” “No striking motion”

Rory Sloane

Two weeks (one with an early plea)
Medium, careless impact to the head

Yeah, that doesn’t seem quite right. Discuss here.

H/T to SugarShane for the GIFs