Eagles coach slams AFL over ‘Nic Nat’ rule

WEST Coast coach Adam Simpson has blasted Michael Christian’s handling of the Nic Naitanui tackling controversy, labelling it as sloppy.

And Simpson questioned whether the match review officer simply made up a “Nic rule” to stop the powerful ruckman laying hard tackles.

Naitanui was handed a one-week ban for his heavy tackle that drove Karl Amon’s head into the turf.

Amon was later diagnosed with a delayed concussion.

West Coast’s appeal failed on Wednesday night and the ban has divided the footy world.

The tribunal’s assessment that the 110kg Naitanui had a duty of care to consider the size and weight difference between himself and 79kg Amon has also been criticised.

The ruckman was left “dumbfounded” by the decision to ban him, and has pledged to keep playing in the same manner.

Simpson felt Christian did a poor job assessing Naitanui’s bump from the outset.

“He got that wrong with suggestions that both arms were pinned (and that) Amon came off and didn’t come back on. So that was just a bit sloppy,” he said.

“The follow-up from that (is he went) on every radio station and suggested it was the easiest decision he’s made.

“I would have thought we can make that (comment) after the tribunal, not before. So the natural justice of everything is a bit flawed.”

AFL football operations manager Steve Hocking tried to clarify the league’s position about tackling yesterday, saying it was not necessary for players to assess potential weight disparities before being physical with their opponent.

Hocking said Naitanui’s ban was about protecting the head and neck of players, describing the decision as “for the greater good of the game”.

Simpson said Naitanui may have to resort to laying bumps — something that could result in more serious injuries.

“He got the tackle wrong. That’s OK. That’s a free kick. But what does he do from now on?” he said.

“So now I’ve got to make a decision, and so does Nic . . . does he hip and shoulder is the question?

“Maybe it’s just a Nic rule because he’s so powerful. And (they are sending the message) don’t be so powerful and strong and aggressive in the act of play — I’m not sure.”