It’s clear the AFL’s goal review system needs plenty of work, with much fan ire directed towards a laboured process carried out at the discretion of the umpires (or the behest of the faceless men upstairs).
This builds resentment against the umpires, not only when they get it wrong, but also when they had the call right and are slowing down the game.
There is merit in Damien Hardwick’s complaint that the game should not stop – it can destroy momentum, and atmosphere for us watching.
But it could build the atmosphere with one simple suggestion: make the decision to go to review the captain’s call.
Give the captain one strike per half: if they are wrong, they’ve lost the chance to appeal. If they are right, they retain the chance (but nothing carries over).
They would have until the bounce to consult with their players and make a call. Will they, won’t they? Need to make a decision quick as the ball is en route to the bounce.
It gives the audience an opportunity to be more involved in the theatre of the game – either their own captain is taking a justified gamble, or they may believe the opposition is clutching at straws.
This would also take away any resentment towards the umpires, who are currently in a no-win situation, ‘stopping the flow of the game’.
While obviously it doesn’t help the issue of accuracy of calls, would this help make the review process more palatable for teams, coaches and fans?
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