GIANTS forward Jeremy Cameron has been suspended for five weeks by the AFL tribunal.
Cameron fronted the tribunal in Melbourne on Tuesday night and pleaded not guilty to intentionally striking Brisbane’s Harris Andrews, with the club arguing that the incident should be graded as careless.
The tribunal panel consisting of chair Ross Howie, Jason Johnson, David Neitz and Shane Wakelin deliberated for over 30 minutes before settling of intentional conduct and handing down the lengthy ban.
Following the 90-minute hearing, Cameron was quick to apologise to the young Lion.
“I didn’t mean to hurt Harris. Unfortunately, I did and I’m very sorry for that and I hope to get backs to playing football very soon,” said Cameron.
“I think it was a fair hearing and my main concern at the moment is around Harris and his family.
“I’m sure it caused a lot of stress over the past few days and, like I said, I’m looking forward to seeing him back on the field where he belongs.”
During the hearing, the tribunal was told of a text exchange between Cameron and Andrews on Sunday night that read:
Jeremy Cameron: Hey Harris, thought I'd send you a message to see how you're going today. I feel sick at the way things panned out. I hope there is no serious damage. You’re going to be a champion mate. Jezza
Harris Andrews: Feeling a bit better today which is positive. Cheers, Harris
The GIANTS forward was reported during the opening quarter of the round 14 match at the Gabba after making high contact with Andrews during a marking contest.
Based on the available video evidence and the medical report from the Brisbane Lions, the Match Review Officer Michael Christian classified the incident as intentional conduct, severe impact and high contact.
The 25-year old is expected to return for the round 20 match against Carlton at Etihad Stadium on August 5.
Earlier today, midfielder Lachie Whitfield accepted a $2000 fine for striking Brisbane’s Dayne Zorko in the fourth quarter on Saturday.
The GIANTS host Hawthorn on Saturday night at Spotless Stadium.
