Is everyone aware that 4 of the rule changes in the SANFL this year? ( I was aware of the changes in the AFL especially the kick ins )
I know I wasn't until I read this:
Laws Change in 2006
SANFL trial matches have commenced at the junior levels and Round 1 of the season is not too far away. Of course, with any new season comes new laws and law changes, and 2006 is no exception.
This season will see the introduction of four major changes to the current laws.
1. Stopping Time
The timekeepers shall stop the clock which is used for the timing of the match when the Field Umpire crosses his or her arms to indicate that he or she is going to bounce or throw the ball up.
2. Kicking the football into play after a behind has been scored
A player of the defending team may kick the football into play when the goal umpire has signaled that a behind has been scored.
3. Marking the Football
Where a field umpire is of the opinion that he or she has incorrectly blown the whistle to award a mark that was not subsequently completed, he or she may cancel the decision and call play on.
4. Kicking for Goal
Where a player is kicking for a goal after being awarded a mark or free kick in the goal square, the kick shall be taken from directly in front of the goals from a spot horizontally across from where the mark or free kick was awarded.
These changes will take effect from the weekend of Saturday 25 February 2006 to include introduction in the trial match period.
I wonder if the new kicking the footy in directly after the signalling of a point will advantage/disadvantage a few teams?
Less acute angles for marks near the goal might help North with the tall timber they'll have up there.