Re: AFL Rd 13 2026 Post Game Prognostications Carlton vs Essendon
Reply #95 –
I've been watching AFL for many years, and for me, 98 times out of 100 you can pick an umpire decision just looking at the play.
But with the centre line infringements, it is like a complete raffle - the whistle blows, everyone looks bemused, and you wait to see which way the umpire's arm is pointing before you know who's got it......
That suggests to me that the rule is far too loose and it is little wonder that the ruckmen are having a difficult time working out what to do. I've watched a lot of games this year, and It's noticeable that infringing ruckmen are often seen questioning what they have done wrong.
Quite simply, the rule has to go, because it is a guessing game. Just wait until a final is decided by one of these dodgy frees.
My bet is it will be removed, because it doesn't add to the game, and just increases frustration for everyone.