The MRO has handed down a $1875 fine to Steven May for staging during Melbourne‘s three-point win over North Melbourne on Saturday night at the MCG.
May appeared to exaggerate his body movement in a sling tackle placed on him by Kangaroo Eddie Ford.
Ford did bring May to ground, but the Dees defender did not hit his head on the turf.
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However, May grabbed his head as his body hit the ground, looking to appeal for a free kick.
The free kick was eventually paid, but only after May grabbed at his head, seconds after the tackle had been executed.
Steven May was charged for staging against Eddie Ford. Fox Footy
Under the AFL’s rules, a staging fine can be given if an act is deemed to be an “excessive exaggeration of contact in an unsportsmanlike manner”.
It comes as Kane Cornes slammed May’s act on Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.
“It’s one of his more embarrassing moments on the field,” Cornes said.
“His head went nowhere near the ground, then he’s thrown his head into the ground then grabbed his head to suck in a free kick.
Steven May celebrates with Tom McDonald. Getty
“Poor umpiring to let that go on for so long, he should have blown his whistle earlier.”
Reporter Damian Barrett explained how the umpire may have adjudicated the decision in the heat of the moment, with the protection of the ball carrier’s head always at the forefront of officials minds.
“The sensitivity around the head, and when an umpire sees a player grab his head, it’s only natural (to protect the player and give a free kick),” he said.
Steven May. AFL Photos via Getty Images
“Steven May has caused this problem here. Something needs to be addressed.”
If May decides to accept the penalty as an early plea, the fine will be reduced to $1250.
The Demons face off against Brisbane at the Gabba on Friday night.