AFL: Blues defender Jordan Boyd suspended for high impact

Defender Jordan Boyd is expected to miss Carlton’s clash with GWS after being suspended for one match for a high push on Richmond’s Rhyan Mansell.

Richmond forward Mansell had just caught the ball near the perimeter line in the fourth quarter of Carlton’s stunning 61-point victory over the Tigers on Sunday when he was caught by an onrushing Boyd.

Mansell ducked as he approached Boyd and was hit head-on by the defender’s stomach.

The Tiger was awarded a free kick for high contact, but was able to finish the game.

Match Commissioner Michael Christian accused Boyd of rough conduct and assessed the incident as careless conduct with high physical contact and medium impact, which leads to a one-game suspension.

Top-notch defender Boyd has played in all 15 games this season and is a crucial part of the Blues’ high-flying back line.

Unless his appeal to the arbitration panel is successful, Boyd will miss Saturday’s away game at Engie Stadium against GWS, who are hoping for a place in the final.

The Blues have until 11am on Tuesday to decide whether to accept the suspension.

Boyd’s Carlton teammate Nic Newman can accept a $1,250 fine for wrestling, as can Tigers star Liam Baker.