AFL Faces Scrutiny Over Review System and Tribunal Controversies
Football operations boss Greg Swann has acknowledged the need for changes to the Australian Football League’s (AFL) review system, admitting that the past week has been challenging for the league headquarters. The controversies involving the tribunal and appeals board have drawn fresh attention to the league’s video review system, prompting calls for reform.
Swann announced on Monday that the Appeals Review Committee (ARC) would no longer override a goal umpire’s decision unless the goal umpire had requested a review. This change comes in response to recent incidents that have sparked public debate and criticism.
One such incident occurred at Marvel Stadium, where approximately 50 seconds of play, including 33 seconds of action, were lost due to a review. Saints ruckman Rowan Marshall was initially deemed to have marked the ball before it crossed the behind line during the second term. A behind was called without a score review, and the game continued until the field umpire halted action after the ARC completed its review. The ball was then returned to where Marshall had marked, allowing him to snap a goal. This led to AFL great Matthew Lloyd describing the incident as “one of the dumbest things he had seen in football.”
Swann explained that the delay was due to officials reviewing the mark frame by frame, followed by a further delay in consulting the field umpires. Despite this, he maintained that the correct call was ultimately made. The AFL is currently exploring upgraded technology and ball tracking systems to assist with goal reviews, but Swann emphasized the importance of umpires being “controllers of the game.”
Another ARC error occurred on Sunday when replays showed North Melbourne defender Griffin Logue’s fingers bending back as the ball passed his outstretched hand. Despite this, a GWS goal stood, which Swann admitted was an incorrect call.
The AFL has faced significant pressure following two contentious tribunal hearings last week. Zak Butters, a Port Adelaide star, was cleared of abusing an umpire after the club successfully argued there had been a “miscarriage of justice” in the initial hearing. During this hearing, AFL tribunal member Jason Johnson disconnected from his desktop and rejoined on his phone while driving to an appointment. When asked about Johnson, Swann responded, “No, you’d think it would not happen again. I mean, he was very apologetic.”
In a separate case, the AFL removed its appeals board chairman, Will Houghton, KC, just two days after the panel reduced Lance Collard’s ban for using offensive language during a VFL match. Collard claimed he said “maggot” instead of the phrase “f—ing f—-t.” Houghton’s statement that such language is “commonplace” was strongly rejected by the AFL and the AFL Players Association.
Swann described the week as disappointing, noting that AFL chief Andrew Dillon had expressed disagreement with Houghton’s decision. He also mentioned that the overall tribunal process is under review, with potential changes to reduce legal counsel input. Houghton will be replaced by the end of the week.
Swann reaffirmed his support for the stand rule, which aims to improve the “flow” of the game and scoring. However, he acknowledged confusion in an incident between the Gold Coast and Hawthorn, where Jamarra Ugle-Hagan was penalized. Swann clarified that the player was penalized for “cribbing,” or encroaching on the mark, rather than not standing. He conceded that umpires could have been clearer in their instructions, particularly in calling out the player’s name.
The league is still reviewing Carlton’s report on how the club handled the mental health episode of Elijah Hollands during a match against Collingwood. Additionally, the AFL may release its findings on changes to the drafting of father-son and academy players as early as this week.
