MRP’s pulling punches

Riewoldt’s biding time

ST KILDA veteran Nick Riewoldt says he’s in no rush to sign a contract extension.

There is speculation the Saints will re-sign the 34-yearold forward mid-season, a decision former premiership coach Mick Malthouse said would be premature.

But Riewoldt, who turns 35 in October, said serious discussions wouldn’t start until the team’s bye week.

The former skipper is in his 17th AFL season after signing a one-year extension last year and has played 327 games, second only to Robert Harvey (383).

In recent seasons Riewoldt has been battling a debilitating knee condition and he hyperextended his right knee in Round 1 against Melbourne.

His form has been solid but he has battled pain. TODAY is the day the AFL match review panel can make a statement on jumper and stomach punches – they will no longer be tolerated.

A week after Richmond skipper Trent Cotchin escaped with a fine for his “careless” hit on Fremantle’s Lachie Neale, the practice was rife at the MCG yesterday as North Melbourne fought to earn a 14point win over Melbourne.

Kangaroos midfielder Ben Cunnington will face scrutiny after gut-punching Bernie Vince in one of several spotfires yesterday.

“I hope the match review panel is watching to see what they’ve created with this dud jumper punch,” Paul Roos said on Triple M.

“Players know it’s perfectly legal to hit someone. That’s why it continues.”