The Melbourne Football Club has self-reported a breach of the COVID-19 protocols involving players Charlie Spargo and Kysaiah Pickett. 

The breach occurred when the pair travelled via an Uber to an unauthorised house for a non-essential gathering.

As a result, Spargo has received a two-match suspension and Pickett, a one-match suspension.

They will both be unavailable for AFL selection in the Round 2 game between Melbourne and Carlton, while Spargo will be also unavailable for the Round 3 match against Essendon. 

“We know how important these protocols are and the social licence that we have been granted to be able to train and play AFL,” General Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney said. 

“As a Club, we reported the breach to the AFL integrity department, who then completed their investigation, resulting in their suspensions.

“The two players attended a non-essential gathering and travelled via Uber, which is a clear breach. Both Charlie and Kozzy acknowledged that they knew the rules, admitted their mistake and openly participated with the AFL investigation.

“On the whole, our players and staff have been compliant to the strict measures. However, on this occasion, there has been a clear breach against the AFL protocols, and we accept the sanctions.”

The players will be available to play in the Club’s practice match on Saturday morning.