This might have something to do with it and will make for some interesting discussions and conjecture throughout the year:
SANFL Press Release wrote:
There have been some minor changes to the SANFL interpretations and laws for the 2011 season. Please see below.
1. HOLDING THE BALL:
2011: If a player doesn’t make a genuine attempt to either dispose of the ball or knock the ball on when legally tackled, the umpire will delay his whistle and if the ball does not come out, penalise the player for holding the ball.
2010: The umpire was more lenient with the player who made no genuine attempt, causing a ball-up.
2. DELIBERATE OUT-OF-BOUNDS:
2011: If a player’s intent is to go towards the boundary line with force and under no pressure, the field umpire will pay deliberate out-of-bounds.
2010: The interpretation was if a player made ground in his direction of goal, then the umpire would give the player the benefit of the doubt and a throw-in would occur.
3. DEMONSTRATIVE ABUSE TOWARDS UMPIRES:
2011: If a player is abusive or demonstrative towards an umpire, the player will be penalised either with a free kick or a 25m penalty.
2010: The umpire was more lenient in accepting demonstrative action from players.
4.THE ADVANTAGE PLAY: (New law in line with AFL’s requirements for State Leagues.)
2011: The player is now given the responsibility to play the ball to advantage. The umpire will no longer call the ball to advantage until the player with the ball has had an opportunity to dispose of the ball.
2010: It was the umpire’s responsibility to call the ball to advantage. If there was no advantage, the umpire would stop the play and reset the play with the free kick being awarded.
These interpretations have been introduced to keep the ball in motion and in play for the benefit of the style of game.
