In a shock development, it is believed that the Fremantle Dockers called a secret in camera appeal on the Tyrone Vickery case and successfully argued that the penalty of 2 weeks suspension would be more effectively served by having him play for the Richmond senior side than being out of it.
They successfully made the argument that a suspension should in fact be overturned to playing which would effectively penalise both the player and the club to provide a deterrent to future cases.
"In our view, both Tyrone and the Richmond football club would actually see playing him as a deterrent to any future incidents." The QC Martin Ferhuson for the Dockers said.
Cleve Hughes who appeared as a character witness on behalf of Tyrone made it clear that Tyrone was doing anything to avoid playing AFL football.
"He told me before the game, he was going to attempt an air swing at Firrito in the hope he would connect"
"He told me- "If I don't play, I still get paid". Cleve added.
After the hearing Damien Hardwick was pleased with the outcome
"Look Tyrone is one of our most talented players, no doubt when he is up and about we look like a side who look like it's looking to be in contention."
"In a funny sort of a way, Fremantle looks better side with Tyrone in our side" he added.
It is believed that Fremantle agreed that Tyrone would be allowed to play as a 23rd man.
