AFL and Chris Scott Discuss Umpiring Concerns After Geelong’s Loss to Port Adelaide.
Following Geelong’s unexpected defeat to Port Adelaide, the AFL’s new head of umpiring met with Cats coach Chris Scott to address his criticisms of the current rule interpretations. During the post-match press conference, Scott emphasized the need for quicker holding the ball decisions and suggested that the League should learn from other sports to enhance the advantage rule.
Laura Kane, the AFL’s EGM of Football, confirmed that Stephen McBurney, the new head of officiating, and Michael Jennings, the head umpiring coach, visited Geelong to discuss Scott’s concerns. Kane stressed the importance of maintaining alignment between the League, clubs, and umpires on rule interpretations and outcomes.
Scott highlighted the challenge players face in balancing effective tackles without risking injury to opponents and potential suspensions. He noted that players are now more cautious, often resulting in more time being given to dispose of the ball.
Kane also addressed a controversial call from the game, where Geelong was denied a crucial goal. She explained that the umpires made the right decision by stopping play after Jhye Clark’s kick was deemed not advantageous, even though it prevented Jeremy Cameron’s goal that would have significantly closed the score gap.
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