AFL admits key umpiring error made late in Pies’ comeback; Legend’s eye-opening take on the speccy

The Australian Football League (AFL) has acknowledged that a mistake was made in the game between North Melbourne and Collingwood, but it does not agree with the assumption that a different call should have been made. Specifically, the league has recognized that a 50-meter penalty was incorrectly denied to North Melbourne’s Bailey Scott late in the game, which ultimately contributed to their one-point loss to Collingwood at Marvel Stadium.

Bailey Scott took a mark outside the 50-meter line, only to be immediately pressured by Collingwood’s Steele Sidebottom and Beau McCreery as he attempted to kick into attack. Many believe this should have resulted in a 50-meter penalty, giving North Melbourne a chance to take the lead with less than a minute remaining. However, AFL football boss Laura Kane attributes the controversy to the umpire’s handling of the situation.

Kane acknowledges the confusion surrounding the incident, stating that the situation was unclear. She explains that the umpire had two options: to immediately call “play on” or “stand,” indicating the mark had been paid. Instead, there was a delay, causing confusion among the players, particularly the Collingwood players, who were unsure of what to do.Kane concludes that the correct call should have been “play on” initially, which would have avoided the confusion. She attributes the error to poor communication, which ultimately led to the incorrect call.

North fans will have a right to be upset after this wasn't paid a 50m penalty in the final minute.

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AFL football boss Laura Kane explained that if the umpire had called “stand” immediately after Scott took the mark, and the Collingwood players had closed in, it would have resulted in a 50-meter penalty. Kane pinpointed the initial mistake as the failure to call “play on” immediately, stating that every objective marker indicated “play on” was the correct call.

AFL football boss Laura Kane explained that the goal was reviewed in the league’s video hub, stating that certainty was needed in the ARC (AFL review centre) and score reviewers needed to see a clear vision that the ball was touched. Kane emphasized that the review process was fair, acknowledging that the call could have gone either way, but the lack of definitive vision or image prevented the call from being overturned.

Jeremy Howe, known for his impressive high marks, expressed concern for Jamie Elliott if Bobby Hill’s mark wins the mark of the year award. Howe believes Hill’s mark was better, citing the remarkable circumstances of Hill standing on the shoulders of teammates and opponents to take the grab.

Jeremy Howe praised Bobby Hill’s mark, stating that it was impressive and even compared it to hitting the roof. He noted that Hill’s ability to stay up and collect the ball was remarkable.

Collingwood coach Craig McRae praised Bobby Hill’s mark, calling it a good one. Jeremy Howe highlighted the importance of both skill and courage in taking such marks, noting that Hill’s ability to control his movements and maintain balance was crucial.