The AFL’s new on-the-mark rule is already confusing players and the season hasn’t even started yet.
Footy fans have been given their first look as to how the controversial rule change will work in-game, as Essendon took to the field for an intra-club in Melbourne.
WATCH THE INFRINGEMENT IN THE WINDOW ABOVE
Players are now required to stand still on the mark while an opposing player kicks, unable to move until the umpire calls ‘play on’.
Teams can receive a 50 metre penalty if they move from a stationary position on the mark, even laterally, which is exactly what happened to Kyle Langford at Bombers training today.
Darcy Parish tackled Langford forcing a ‘holding the ball’ call and a subsequent free kick, but as Parish side stepped before taking his kick, Langford’s slight pursuit was pinged and ‘team black’ were hit with a 50 metre penalty.
Umpires have tried to implement the new rule at intra-clubs across the country in recent weeks hoping players will have adjusted come round one.
There’s been a strong reaction from some pundits and former players, arguing “the umpires (have) got enough on their plate.”
Others were more forgiving of the implementation, arguing that while the change is significant the players should be aware of the concise wording handed to clubs this preseason.