Finals axe for umpire

RAY Chamberlain has been axed for the preliminary finals as the AFL endorsed the standard of umpiring in the Western Bulldogs’ unforgettable victory against Brisbane Lions.

Chamberlain’s season is effectively over after he was told he would not be selected for either of the Geelong-Melbourne (Perth Stadium) or Port Adelaide-Bulldogs (Adelaide Oval) blockbusters.

The league will select its three grand final umpires based on performances in those games. Chamberlain, 45, had his mic turned up by Channel 7 last Friday night and received plenty of airtime as he officiated in Geelong’s win against the Giants.