Collingwood recruit Dan Houston has been handed a two-match suspension following a high bump on Carlton’s Lachie Fogarty during their recent AFL clash. The incident occurred in a heated contest at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where both teams were battling for momentum. The AFL’s Match Review Officer deemed Houston’s bump to be careless and high-impact, resulting in a two-game ban. While the decision has sparked debate among fans and analysts, Collingwood has opted not to challenge the ruling, accepting the penalty handed down. The suspension means Houston will miss the next two games, including crucial matchups in the coming weeks. His absence will be felt in Collingwood’s midfield and defensive structures, as he has been a valuable addition since his arrival at the club. The 26-year-old, who previously played for Port Adelaide, has impressed in his short time with the Magpies, showing strong ball use and defensive pressure. With Houston sidelined, coach Craig McRae will need to reshuffle the team’s lineup to cover the gap left by the dynamic midfielder. One silver lining for Collingwood is that Houston will be available for the highly anticipated Anzac Day clash against Essendon. This annual fixture is one of the biggest games on the AFL calendar, drawing massive crowds and carrying significant historical importance. The Magpies will be eager to have him back for this match, as his versatility and experience could prove crucial against the Bombers. Houston himself will be keen to make an impact upon his return, especially after missing two games due to suspension. The bump on Fogarty has reignited discussions about the AFL’s stance on high contact and player safety. The league has been cracking down on head-high hits in recent years, with stricter penalties for incidents deemed careless or reckless. While some Collingwood supporters argue that the punishment was harsh, others acknowledge that protecting players from potential concussions is a priority. The AFL’s tribunal has remained consistent in penalizing similar incidents, emphasizing a duty of care among players. Collingwood will now have to adapt without Houston for the next fortnight, with opportunities opening up for other players to step up. Young midfielders and fringe players may get a chance to prove themselves in his absence, and McRae will likely look for internal solutions to maintain the team’s strong form. The Magpies are currently in good standing on the ladder, and they will need to maintain their momentum despite the temporary loss of a key recruit. In the broader context of the AFL season, Houston’s suspension is a reminder of how quickly things can change in elite football. While he has been an important part of Collingwood’s setup, the team must move forward and focus on the games ahead. His return for the Anzac Day showdown will be highly anticipated, and he will no doubt be eager to make up for lost time. Until then, the Magpies will need to prove that their depth can withstand setbacks and continue their strong push in the 2025 season.