Fremantle defender Luke Ryan has surrendered what could prove a hugely costly goal in the Dockers’ top-of-the-table clash with Sydney by giving away a free kick for taunting.

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And in a cruel twist of irony, the Dockers have fallen victim to a rule adjustment which was seemingly introduced due to the actions of their own forward Pat Voss earlier this year.

In the first term of the finals-like bout, Ryan was clearly aggrieved to be have be on the wrong end of a holding the ball decision after being tackled by Chad Warner deep inside his own defensive 50m arc.

After the Sydney star’s shallow snap was touched on the goal-line by Alex Pearce, the veteran Dockers defender immediately went to remonstrate with Warner, rubbing his opponent on the head.

Warner was quick to point out the move to umpires, who promptly paid a free kick for taunting against Ryan.

Charlie Curnow was walked to the goal square and promptly slammed through Sydney’s second goal of an enthralling first term.

Taunting came into the AFL spotlight after Voss repeatedly rubbed the head of Melbourne defender Harrison Petty during Fremantle’s round two win over Melbourne.

In the wake of the incident, the AFL issued a directive to umpires saying a player who ruffled the hair of an opponent was to have a free kick paid against them.

Channel Seven commentators Luke Hodge and Kane Cornes said they appreciated why the rule had been introduced, but felt the penalty was too severe.

“I can understand why they do it, because it escalates . . . but it’s a bit harsh,” Hodge said.

Cornes added: “It’s a no from me”.

In a remarkable postscript, Sydney’s Dane Rampe responded in kind in the third term, handing Jye Amiss the ball back after receiving a push in the back free kick by brushing his hand through his hair.