AFL MRO news: All the latest updates from round 2

Collingwood coach Craig McRae expected Rory Lobb to face MRO scrutiny for his high hit on Mason Cox. But the Bulldog could be saved from a ban.

Mason Cox’s clean bill of health may allow Rory Lobb to stay clear of suspension despite Craig McRae’s view after the veteran Magpie was cleared of concussion following a nasty hit on Friday night.

Lobb swung an arm to collect Cox when the American was attempting to mark and his left fist smashed into Cox’s face.

The Magpie flag winner collapsed to the ground and his trademark goggles were dislodged.

While Cox didn’t return in the fourth quarter, he was cleared of concussion and left just with a large cut on his left cheek.

Mason Cox goes down after a hit from Rory Lobb. Picture: Getty Images

Lobb could avoid a ban as Cox wasn’t concussed. Picture: Michael Klein

A concussion would have landed Lobb in hot water but he could now avoid a ban and be free to take on Carlton forward pair Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay in a vital Friday clash next week.

Collingwood coach Craig McRae still expected Western Bulldogs defender Rory Lobb to be scrutinised.

“It looked from the vision that he got punched in the face so he got a couple of stitches,” McRae said.

“I assume so (Lobb will be looked at). A guy leaves the ground with a couple stitches.”

McRae said Cox’s glasses may have contributed to the cut, but suggested it shouldn’t be a consideration from MRO Michael Christian.

“Potentially, but he got punched in the face. Yeah,” McRae said.

Ironman Magpie Jack Crisp’s first-term tackle on Rhylee West will also be looked at, but West played out the game so the Pies’ consecutive games streak of 240 is likely to carry on.