AFL round two Saturday action: Underdog Dons host Crows; Cats poised to lose Smith

Collingwood were all smiles on Friday night and again on Saturday after their narrow with over Footscray, but the umpiring has been firmly in the spotlight. The Magpies received 33 free kicks compared to 14 for their opposition.

Dogs midfielder Ed Richards said the officiating was noticeable out on the field.

“I’m always one to say put the whistle away, you don’t have to get yourself involved too much if you’re an umpire,” Richards told 3AW post-match. “Hopefully I don’t get in trouble for saying that.”

Former Geelong champion and 3AW pundit Jimmy Bartel had a quick summary. “Terrible umpiring,” he said on Friday night.