The clause that may save Lions ace for AFL grand final

Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale may avoid a one-match suspension for striking Hawthorn's Jack Ginnivan during last Saturday night's preliminary final. Neale's team is challenging the charge in a bid to allow him to participate in Saturday's grand final between Fremantle and Brisbane at the MCG. The AFL tribunal chairman, Jeff Gleeson KC, clarified that the "good bloke" clause does not exist, instead focusing on compelling and exceptional circumstances.

This clause could potentially save Neale from the suspension. The Lions will use Pendlebury's case from March as an example, where his exemplary record led to a downgraded penalty. Neale, a dual Brownlow medallist and four-time premiership captain, has never been suspended before, making his case unique.