The umpiring trend Leigh Matthews says ‘makes the game better’

Leigh Matthews says he’s a fan of “strict” umpiring in the AFL, pointing to last Friday night’s thriller between Sydney and Richmond as yet another example of a high-quality match coming from a heavily officiated game.

There were 61 free kicks paid during the match the Swans won by a goal.

Both teams scored more than 100 points.

“We’re in a very small minority here, Gerard (Healy). You, me, and Tim Lane,” Matthews said on 3AW.

“We are the ones who think more free kicks quite often makes the game better.

“I am a fan of strict umpiring.”

Press PLAY below to hear him explain why