Western Bulldogs coach Luke Bevo Beveridge has expressed concern over a controversial AFL rule tweak, citing its potential impact on the game’s integrity. Bevo’s comments come on the heels of his team’s thrilling 11-point loss to the Brisbane Lions, which saw the Bulldogs “torched” by a series of contentious decisions.
The rule in question, introduced this season, allows the umpires to award a free kick against a player who initiates contact with an opponent, even if the contact is deemed incidental. While aimed at promoting player safety, Bevo believes the tweak has created confusion and inconsistency.
“It’s risky now,” Bevo said in a post-match press conference. “We’re seeing a lot of free kicks paid for what looks like incidental contact. It’s changing the fabric of the game.” He pointed to several instances during the Lions match where his players were penalized for minor infringements, which ultimately swung the momentum in favor of the opposition.
Bevo’s concerns are shared by many within the AFL community, who fear that the rule change is stifling the game’s physicality and unpredictability. As the season heats up, the debate is sure to intensify, with coaches, players, and fans alike calling for clarity and consistency in the application of the rules.
The Western Bulldogs will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing loss when they face the Richmond Tigers in Round 14. With the rule tweak remaining a hot topic, it will be interesting to see how the umpires officiate the match and whether Bevo’s concerns are addressed.
