It’s radical interpretation time again

We at AussieRulesBlog can’t help noticing that the umpires are applying a new, far stricter interpretation of playing on after a free kick or mark. Players need only glance to one side, or so it seems, before an umpire yells “Play on!!” Where once a definite step off line was required, it seems a mere feint will do the trick now.

 

We shouldn’t be surprised. It’s a signature of the Gieschen umpires administration that new rules or new interpretations are applied with missionary zeal for some weeks before a (slightly) saner approach is adopted. When the one thing we all crave from the umpires is consistency, Gieschen’s approach guarantees disappointment.

 

While we’re on the subject, we also notice umpires giving players not shooting for goal substantially less time to settle and find a target than their goal-shooting counterparts. Again, in the name of consistency if nothing else, players should have twenty seconds to compose themselves before being invited to take their kick.

 

Gieschen’s penchant for different interpretations and application depending on circumstances creates unnecessary grey areas and reinforces the umpires’ current reputation for inconsistency.

 

A new season is beginning, so let us return to a well-loved theme — Release the Giesch!!!