Roos ruck rule anger after Dees pay price

PREMIERSHIP coach Paul Roos says the ruck nomination rule is an “embarrassment to our game” and must be removed for next season.

The controversial rule is back in the spotlight after a contentious decision was paid against Melbourne’s Angus Brayshaw for obstructing Patrick Dangerfield at a boundary throw-in on Saturday. Dangerfield was 10m away from opposition ruckman Max Gawn when the superstar Cat nominated for the ruck from the side of the play, and drew contact and a subsequent free kick from an oblivious Brayshaw.

It was a crucial moment in the game as Dangerfield converted the free kick into a goal in the Cats’ thrilling twopoint win.

Roos said there was no need for ruckmen to nominate. He said the AFL should change the rule to instead simply penalise a third man up in the ruck contest.

“It’s an embarrassment to our game that you have to have two people [nominate for a ruck contest],” Roos said.

“It’s an embarrassment for the laws committee to put that rule in place. “What is it, under-12s?” Melbourne players Gawn and Bernie Vince immediately argued with the umpire after the second-quarter incident.

Sydney great Jude Bolton said Brayshaw likely didn’t hear Dangerfield’s ruck nomination or confirmation from the umpire because he was wearing a helmet.

“I’ve worn a helmet, you can’t hear anything,” Bolton said. “Either way, the rule creates confusion.”