Luke Hodge warns Fremantle's Mason Cox over staging

AFL legend Luke Hodge has issued a stern warning to Fremantle Dockers player Mason Cox following his performance in a recent loss to Melbourne. While Hodge noted Cox has been impressive with his contested work and marking during his first season with the Dockers, he criticized a specific incident where Cox appeared to “flop” to win a free kick.

During the final quarter at the MCG, Cox launched himself forward following slight contact from Melbourne's Jake Lever. The umpire called play on, and the opportunity was lost. Hodge warned that such behavior, specifically staging for free kicks, could have severe consequences for Cox’s professional career, stating, “If you’re on the MCG, you do not flop. Mason, if you flop again, you’ll never play AFL again in your career.”

In addition to the staging incident, Cox also committed a turnover during the match that resulted in a Melbourne goal. Fremantle is scheduled to play Adelaide this Friday night.