Essendon has decided this afternoon that it will appeal the three-match suspension handed down to Andrew Lovett last night. The Bombers will put their case before the Appeals Board tomorrow night. Lovett was originally offered a two-match suspension for an early guilty plea after being reported for striking the Eages' Adam Hunter.

But Essendon opted to contest the charge believing Lovett's actions were reckless rather than intentional. The tribunal disagreed and he was suspended for three weeks. Dean Solomon's charging report was overturned.