The protected area and the new rules.

[comrade]

I watched the stand rule enforced in a local reserves practice match yesterday. It's hard enough for AFL players to stand still after practicing for months, almost impossible for a local player to stop themselves from mirroring their opponent with the ball when on the mark.

How many 50m penalties?

[Axe Man]

How many 50m penalties?

I only noticed one that was definitely the stand rule, but I wasn't watching intently. Sensibly the umpires didn't seem to be adjudicating it to the letter of the law but I can see some wild inconstancies coming this season.

[jeemak]

I watched the stand rule enforced in a local reserves practice match yesterday. It's hard enough for AFL players to stand still after practicing for months, almost impossible for a local player to stop themselves from mirroring their opponent with the ball when on the mark.

Why are they enforcing it in the ressies of a local comp?

[Axe Man]

Why are they enforcing it in the ressies of a local comp?

I assume the umpires are obliged to follow the AFL rule changes, other than for things like the sub and interchange caps.

I have heard umpire numbers are down (and they are always a problem). Rules like this can't help.

[Topdog]

I have heard umpire numbers are down (and they are always a problem). Rules like this can't help.

Very hard to explain the reason for a free kick when you dont agree with the rule.