There are now four field umpires at AFL games. The standard of the umpiring has not improved. In fact it seems to have deteriorated.
There seems to be weird differences in games and from game to game in interpretation of the rules. Decision making on things like a push in the back, whether it be in marking contest or general play is so inconsistent that it puts me off watching. I could go on and on about other rules, incorrect disposal, keeping the ball in play (sufficient intent), dissent, protected area and 50 metre penalties, play on, "stand" on the mark. It seems to have lost all sense of reason and is beyond understanding. Now dangerous tackle.
The killer for me was in the Port Adelaide/Western Bulldogs game. 4 minutes before 3/4 time, in a very tight game, Cody Weightman of the Bulldogs was running in front of his opponent Burton chasing a loose ball into full forward. An almost certain goal was expected at a crucial point in the game. Burton pushed him fair square in the middle of the back causing him to fall over. No free kick, and the ball was cleared. I could not believe a free kick was not paid; it was so obvious. What is the use having a rule stating a push in the back brings a free kick if it's paid only occasionally.
I'm not a Bulldog fan, but that one made me think the game is corrupted and the umpires are in on it big time.
Crap is crap and the umpiring this year is CRAP.
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