West Coast will challenge the one-match ban handed to star recruit Liam Baker in a bid to allow him to play in the club’s 2026 season-opener.
Baker was cited for rough conduct by the AFL’s Match Review Officer for a high bump on Sydney midfielder Chad Warner in the second quarter of the club’s 67-point loss at Optus Stadium on Saturday.
The incident was deemed careless contact, medium impact and high contact. With no option for an early plea, the 27-year-old was offered a one-match suspension.
With the club’s season over, Baker would need to serve that in round one next season. The Eagles confirmed on Monday they would challenge the ban at the AFL Tribunal.
Baker stood in as skipper for West Coast’s final two games of the home and away season, with co-captains Oscar Allen injured and Liam Duggan suspended.
With Allen’s looming departure, the Eagles could look to appoint Baker full-time into the role next year, after an impressive first campaign in the blue and gold, despite the club only winning one game this season.
Defender Reuben Ginbey was also cited for rough conduct on Sydney forward Hayden McLean and offered a $2,500 fine, which was downgraded to $1,500 with an early plea. The Eagles accepted the charge.
More to come
https://thewest.com.au/sport/west-coast-eagles/liam-baker-west-coast-will-challenge-the-one-match-ban-handed-to-star-recruit-following-sydney-swans-clash-c-19795430
