Following a breath-taking contest between Richmond and Carlton that ended in a draw, is it time for the AFL to bring in extra-time during the home-and-away season?
The opening game of the 2023 year was as much entertaining as it was flattening for fans, given the fact both sides could not be split at the final siren.
The draw was the first between the two clubs since their semi-final epic at Waverley Park in 1972.
Clutch efforts from Tiger forward Tom Lynch saved his side, slotting a goal with only 17 seconds remaining on the clock and levelling the score.
TOM LYNCH.
— 7AFL (@7AFL) March 16, 2023
TIED. GAME.#AFLTigersBlues pic.twitter.com/AyKuJowMgn
However, the Blues had an opportunity to steal the victory, with Fremantle recruit Blake Acres dropping an uncontested chest mark 50 metres out from goal.
As players threw their bodies on the ball, attempting to win it back for their side, the siren beats them all, signalling the first draw of the season.
Leaving the MCG - which was filled with 88,084 people on Thursday night - with two points, it sparks debate as to whether or not a winner and a loser should be decided there and then.
First time the first game of a V/@AFL season has been a draw since 1933
— Swamp (@sirswampthing) March 16, 2023
All games were played at the same time back then https://t.co/1uDHNlgzDh
In their post-game interviews, coaches Damien Hardwick and Michael Voss were asked whether or not extra-time should be introduced into the game.
"I suppose it is what it is. I'm not too fussed," Hardwick said.
Former Hawthorn player and commentator Luke Hodge also shared the same view as the Richmond coach.
"Keep the draw. The whole argument about taking the draw out of the game is to remove the awkwardness. It is part of life. Life is awkward at times," Hodge said.
On the opposing side, Carlton's Voss felt strongly about a potential change in rules going forward, preferring a winner on the night.
"I wouldn't mind the extra 3 or 4 minutes each way," Voss said.
"It does feel like the game should continue. That is what we play so we will stick to them (rules)."
Tiger speedster Jayden Short was caught in two minds about the extra-time debate, but felt the AFL could make it the same as the Grand Final.
"They do it in the Grand Final now, so I mean, you probably do it during the year as well," Short said post-match.
"I've had a few draws and it's a bit weird... I'd rather a draw than a loss to be honest."
"We'll take the draw but a win would be nice."
dennispagan used to say draws are like dancing with your sister! Get rid of them put extra time like finals!#AFLTigersblues
— Michael 🎅 (@Collingwoodmag) March 16, 2023
