‘THIRD MAN up’ has been banned in a radical change to the laws of the game in 2017.
In a surprise move, the AFL notified clubs on Wednesday that next season only nominated ruckmen will be able to compete at a contest for a throw-in or ball-up.
Other players will therefore no longer be permitted to contest a ruck contest as ‘third man up’.
Don’t normally like changes being made to the game but think this one is a good one. Bounce downs and throw ins should be more decisive.
For once,the AFL might gave introduced a Rule change that might make sense.
Whether it works or not remains to be seen?They’ve made that many,that the Umps can’t keep up with them.
so how do they actually implement this rule. Before each bounce do they have to have a show of hands or is it a direct verbal question or at the discretion of the umpire who can ruck? I like the rule in kids footy. Ump nominates 2 players of similar height and they contest. Can the nominated player be changed before the actual bounce or throw in? A lot of ifs. Players are canny and will exploit any loopholes to advantage
You think the teams could sort out 2 or 3 Ruckmen in their line ups and do the necessary work when required.
1 from each team contests each hit out.Anyone extra gives away a free kick.SHOULD be simple enough here.
But as always with the AFL,nothing is ever that simple. :pinch:
This has been around ever since I have been watching football.We used to call them ruck rovers.They either blocked for the number one ruckman, or they became the man over the back.
Nothing new about third man up, it is only the congestion of todays football that has made it an inconvenience.
As an old ruckman, I love this change to the rules. All I ever wanted was a fair one on one duel. Isn’t that what sport is all about - a fair go for all players?
Just watched an Essendon vs Geelong game from 1994 yesterday night where Cats led by 5 gls at half time. Highlight (lowlight for me) was Ablett kicking 6 gls in first half. He was brilliant as third man up & slotted a couple from those throw ins. BUT never again. AFL are killing a glimpse of brilliance.