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Find your Sport Nation frequencyStar Roo in major strife following reckless Demon knockout
SEN • July 13th, 2025 6:50 pm
North Melbourne star ruckman Tristan Xerri has found himself in strife after an errant arm caught the head of Demon Tom Sparrow.
Following a ruck battle in North Melbourne’s forward 50, the ball found its way into the arms of the oncoming Sparrow, to which Xerri flung an arm in attempt to tackle, resulting in a high forearm and immediately knocking out the Demon.
The reckless hit is sure to result in a suspension, with the incidental collision to be ruled as high contact and high impact.
Many people have had their say on social media, with the incident likely to be the main talking point of the week until the MRO hand down their decision.
Demon Jake Melksham spoke with ABC Sport post-game, stating that the incident appeared to be a simple accident.
“Regardless of what happens on the field, once the siren goes, you always shake hands,” Melksham said.
“From what I saw, I’m going to say he didn’t mean it. He’s a brute of a man and he just imposes himself on contests, these things happen.”
Fox Footy's Cameron Mooney added: “It was just a reaction to true and hit the ball, and he’s completely missed it.
“That’s reckless … (he’ll) get some time for that. I don’t think it was anything untoward for it, but he’s got it wrong.
“If the ball’s there, your natural reaction is to flick an arm or hand at it. I think that’d what he’s tried to do, but he’s just missed it and got him high.”
Xerri is one of the favourites for the All-Australian ruck position this season.
