Jaidyn Stephenson - The AFL are making it up as they go along.

[AshMac]

I think the rule change was an example of the AFL doing what they are supposed to do and administrating the game. The rule was not implemented to prevent things like the Reiwoldt mark (nor the one earlier in the year by Howe) and needed to be changed. No one is hurt by this - everyone benefits.

The change to the conditions of the Stephenson suspension is a disgrace.

And - just by the way - Bont is VERY VERY VERY lucky that the Giants didn't complete their medical assessment of Haynes before filing their post-match response. I know none of us on here like the situation or the rule as it stands around impact and injury, but if the shoe was on the other foot we would be screaming blue murder right now.

Agree changing the rule was the right approach - but not after round 22 when one coach cracks this s****. For got sake AFL house - stick by a decision and ride it out - even if you tell the umpires to officiate the rule with lenience the way it played out was knee jerk! Rule change at end of the season.

[Bulldog4life]

I can't remember exactly but didn't a similar thing happen to Jack Redpath and he wasn't allowed to play VFL finals? I could be completely wrong maybe someone else can remember.

[GVGjr]

I can't remember exactly but didn't a similar thing happen to Jack Redpath and he wasn't allowed to play VFL finals? I could be completely wrong maybe someone else can remember.

I think you are correct, this 'loop hole' for Stephenson isn't right

[bornadog]

He should have been out for longer than he was and suspending 10 or 12 whatever it is, games is a joke.

[mjp]

Don't we sometimes pull players from the ground in the VFL just in case they may be needed at an AFL game later that same weekend?

Yeah - sure. But those blokes are ELIGIBLE to play. This one is suspended.

If you are suspended based on an incident in a Friday night game and get two weeks - you could potentially play the next week.

Friday night: Play AFL game + reported/suspended for 2-matches.
Saturday avo: VFL Game. 1 match served.
Saturday avo the next week. 2 matches served.
Saturday night the next week. Eligible to play in the AFL competition.

This is a complete joke.

[Twodogs]

Yep the AFL have dropped the ball and completely *!*!*!*!ed this situation up. But is anyone truly surprised that the wording on an official AFL rule/document has been so messed up that the original intention has been contravened? I'm not even a little bit mystified!


Good on Collingwood for paying attention and asking the question about Stephenson's eligibility. It shows they are on the ball.

[Topdog]

The fact that moron Gil is out in public saying it's all good is pathetic