So, about last night.
Adelaide fans across the country will still be stewing over the decision not to award the Crows a free kick and a potentially game-winning shot on goal in the final seconds of Friday night’s game, when Essendon ruck Sam Draper dived on the ball and did not release it when tackled by Taylor Walker.
This morning, the AFL has confirmed a free kick should have been payed.
“In the moment and at ground level the umpires believed that Draper dived on the ball, and then the ball came out to Draper’s left, and was then knocked back under him by Walker.
“In review, and with the assistance of the broadcast angle and behind the goals Hawkeye vision providing a clearer look, you can see that the ball moves from under Draper’s chest – to under his armpit/shoulder – which means the ball is still in his possession, and he has not immediately knocked it clear.
“Therefore, it technically should have been a Holding the Ball free kick.”
The AFL went on to say it was a “very challenging” call and said the umpire was also correct not to pay the free kick if he wasn’t absolutely sure it was there.
Cold comfort for Crows fans, though I think many will also concede the better team won on the night regardless.
