Geelong coach Chris Scott has sparked discussion within the AFL after making a striking remark following his team’s recent victory over the Bulldogs. He indicated that those in influential positions within the sport are aware of issues concerning the video review technology used for vital in-game decisions. “I might have a bit of inside information that it doesn’t work that well,” Scott stated when addressing contentious umpiring calls during the match.
His comments focused on a particular incident involving a goal scored by Cats forward Ollie Dempsey, which was later disallowed by the AFL’s Review Centre (ARC) after it was claimed that the ball had grazed the goal post. Scott questioned the efficacy of the current technology, emphasising the proximity of the goal umpire—only 30cm away from the action—suggesting that if he couldn’t detect the contact, the technology must be flawed.
Scott continued to challenge the validity of the ARC’s technology, insisting he would prefer to rely on the goal umpire over the tech. “If he doesn’t think that it hit the post, I back him over the technology any day,” he asserted.
Interestingly, Scott later refrained from commenting on a call that benefited Dempsey, where a mark was awarded despite the ball appearing to go out of bounds. This decision allowed Dempsey to score, extending Geelong’s lead and thwarting a Bulldogs comeback effort. Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge acknowledged the contentious nature of that decision but opted not to attribute his team’s defeat to it, referencing the unpredictable nature of the game.
The ARC was established in 2019, boasting high-tech cameras aimed at aiding officials with live decisions. Over the years, technology has also been incorporated into the goalposts to signal instances when the ball makes contact. However, it has arguably led to increased confusion and debate over certain rulings, leaving fans and players bewildered about its limitations and effectiveness.
Scott’s remarks highlight ongoing frustrations regarding officiating technology within the AFL, echoing a broader sentiment that while technological advancements are intended to enhance decision-making, they can also complicate what should be straightforward calls.