Many North Melbourne fans will remember a match back in 2008, when a nail biting draw with Sydney was overshadowed by controversy. The Swans were found to have had 19 on the field, but escaped without a sanction.
On Sunday, the Kangaroos’ VFL affiliate North Ballarat was embroiled in a similar scenario. Captain Myles Sewell called for a head count during the third quarter with Frankston found to have had an extra player on the ground.
While the Swans were lucky to escape, the Dolphins haven’t been so lucky. AFL Victoria confirmed on Monday Frankston has been stripped of its score at the time (5.8.38), meaning a three-point victory is now 41 for the Roosters. At the time, they trailed by 15.
Action was stopped during the premiership quarter with players lined up in the centre and counted. Frankston exceeded the 18 permitted players on the ground, but only a free kick was awarded. The score change was not reflected until referral to the league.
Rooster and Kangaroo defender Luke Delaney explained the situation as it happened.
“When we were out there they (umpires) said at the minute you’ll just get the free kick and then 50 (metre penalty).
“After that they said it would go to the Tribunal and be sorted out from there. I’ve never had a head count before on the field and initially I actually thought we had stuffed up.”
A late goal to Taylor Garner sealed the win for North Ballarat, moving it within striking distance of the top eight.
Controversy in Roosters’ win
Many fans will remember when Sydney was found to have 19 men on the field against North.
