St Kilda defender Shane Savage has given his thoughts on yesterday’s training session which was used to trial new rules the AFL are considering bringing in.
As part of the trial, the Saints played two 10 minute halves and implemented the six-six-six formation at centre bounces, along with an 18 metre goal-square.
Savage highlighted the difficulty in getting back into position during ball ups and throw ins.
“It was an interesting experience, there were a lot of pros and cons,” Savage told SEN Mornings.
“Guys didn’t have enough time to return to their area from the ground at ball ups.
“I’m not a massive fan of them (the new rules) but we’ll see what direction the AFL goes in.
“Mid throw in’s and mid ball ups, four players have to be inside 50.
“In terms of how they’re going to adjudicate that, some players at times just weren’t able to get back.
“Players found it quite difficult to get back at times.
“I know they want to get rid of congestion but in my opinion they’re probably increasing fatigue as well.”
In relation to the other two rule changes, the 18 metre goal square and the six-six-six formation at centre bounces, Savage is fond of the former, but doesn't think the latter will make much of a difference.
“I didn’t mind that rule to be honest with you...obviously the squares 18 metres so I have a lot more distance I can get," Savage said.
“I feel like it will give the team kicking in a pretty big advantage, obviously the zone will be pulled back a lot more which means teams have a lot more space to defend so I can see how that could be a positive, I don’t mind that rule.
“The other ones like six v six v six at centre bounces aren’t a massive issue to be honest with you, I’m happy with that one to come in.
“I don’t think it’s a massive deal if its six v six v six, I can’t see how that one will affect the congestion.”
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