August 12, 2014: We remain hopeful.

MRP chairman Mark Fraser has come out swinging after claims that, if it were to happen again, Nat Fyfe would not be suspended for the head-clash that now sees him ineligible for the Brownlow.

In the face of a barrage of criticism, and threat of an impossible legal challenge from Fyfe's management, Fraser maintains that the same incident would meet the same decision this weekend. "Absolutely, it's a definite rough conduct charge" said Fraser, "exactly the same penalty would occur."

It was a latter comment from Fraser that will concern clubs though: "we endeavour to be consistent throughout the whole process" he said, marking a significant departure from the incongruous and largely incoherent decision making of recent weeks. Whether this will lead to the MRP making any sense to anyone not sitting on the MRP is yet to be seen, though we remain hopeful.

In the news...
Stevey-J has avoided suspension, but may still be in doubt after being seen on crutches this morning. The AFL is reporting that Johnson was 'hit by soreness'.

Coleman Medal leader Jarryd Roughead has accepted his tripping ban and will miss this weekends clash with Fremantle.

Dane Swan will return for the Pies disappointing loss to Brisbane this weekend. "He feels significantly better" said Rodney Eade.