CONFUSION REIGNS AMID 19-MEN NEAFL DRAMA

THE dying stages of the NEAFL grand final was shrouded in confusion after champions Southport were found to have an extra man on the field.

Play was stopped 20 seconds into the final term after Sydney captain Colin O’Riordan called for a headcount that revealed a 19th player for the Sharks. Southport led 12.4 (76) to 2.4 (16) at the time and no scores had been recorded in the fourth quarter.

AFL rules dictate that an offending team’s score can be wiped up until the infringement, putting the Sharks in danger of losing the grand final.

The outcome was uncertain as officials frantically met to discuss the incident. They consulted the AFL and both Sydney and Southport before declaring the score would stand, citing a by-law in NEAFL rules detailing that they can issue a sanction they deem appropriate. A statement from the NEAFL read: “The breach was reported to the NEAFL match manager. Both clubs were informed that an outcome of the breach would be determined as soon as practically possible. After consultation with both clubs and ongoing discussion during the quarter, it was determined that the scores would remain as is. “The decision was made in accordance with NEAFL rule 5.16. a.e. The AFL may determine the matter by way of fine, reversal of Match result or other sanction as it deems appropriate.

“In line with this rule, the NEAFL determined that the breach had no material impact on the outcome of the game and the score should stand. Whilst the decision took some time to get a resolution, we appreciate both clubs’ understanding in the matter.”

A free kick and 50m penalty were given to Sydney and a goal resulted. Southport football manager Jarrod Field frequently communicated with umpires in the final term to determine how the Sharks should play tactically.

“We had to know because it affected the way we were going to be playing,” Field said. Southport coach Stephen Daniel said he was confident his team wouldn’t have the trophy taken from them after umpires gave the free kick. “We looked down at the interchange bench and there were four players instead of five,” Daniel said. “Someone had wandered onto the ground in the first 30 seconds. “I was a bit concerned they could wipe our points but I was aware there was another rule. “Once they gave the 50m penalty away I felt the score would stay.”