AFL Legend Slams MRO System: 'It's Gone Too Far!' – And Offers a Fix
AFL legend Leigh Matthews has launched a scathing attack on the AFL's Match Review Officer (MRO) matrix, declaring the current system “ridiculous” and demanding a return to the former “reckless” grading. The Hall of Fame member believes the simplified system is leading to inconsistent and unfair suspensions, impacting players and the integrity of the game.
Matthews, speaking on SEN, didn't hold back in his assessment. “Everyone knows it’s gone too far,” he stated, highlighting the frustration many within the football community feel regarding the MRO's decisions. The current system, he argues, lacks the nuance needed to properly assess the varying degrees of incidents on field. It’s become a case of applying a blanket approach, often resulting in suspensions that don't accurately reflect the severity of the action.
“The reckless grading was a much better system,” Matthews explained. “It allowed for a more subjective assessment, taking into account factors like the speed of the play, the intent of the player, and the potential for injury. Now, it's just a matter of ticking boxes and applying a predetermined number of weeks.”
The core of Matthews' argument lies in the lack of flexibility within the current matrix. He believes the removal of the “reckless” grading has stripped the MRO of the ability to differentiate between genuinely dangerous acts and those that occur in the heat of the moment. This has led to situations where players are suspended for incidents that many observers deem excessive.
So, what's Matthews’ solution? A return to the 'reckless' grading system, but with added clarity and transparency. He suggests the AFL should clearly define what constitutes “reckless” play, providing examples and guidelines to ensure consistency in its application. This would allow the MRO to more accurately assess incidents and hand out suspensions that are proportionate to the offence.
“It’s not about letting players off the hook,” Matthews clarified. “It’s about ensuring fairness and consistency. Right now, the system is failing on both counts. It's damaging the game and eroding the trust of players, coaches, and fans alike.” His call for change is likely to spark debate within the AFL community, with many questioning whether a return to a more subjective system is the right way forward. However, Matthews’ respected voice and extensive experience make his critique a significant one, and one that the AFL would be wise to consider.
The debate around the MRO system is ongoing, and Matthews’ comments are sure to fuel further discussion. Will the AFL listen to the call for change? Only time will tell.
