Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
AFL video technology is back under scrutiny after Collingwood Magpies coach Craig McRae criticised the review system following Friday night’s four-point win over North Melbourne Kangaroos.
The debate came after Patrick Lipinski was potentially denied a last-quarter goal in Collingwood’s 13.11 (89) to 12.13 (85) win, with the AFL Review Centre unable to overturn the goal umpire’s soft call of a behind.
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McRae Questions Review Standard
The key moment involved North Melbourne Kangaroos forward Cameron Zurhaar, who appeared to touch the ball near the goal line.
After reviewing several angles, the AFL Review Centre ruled there was “insufficient evidence to determine if the ball is touched before or after crossing the back of the goal line”.
“I’ve got a strong opinion,” McRae said when asked about the Patrick Lipinski decision.
“I don’t often share it, but the technology is not up to scratch.
“I know that because I’ve seen technology out there that’s way better than what we’re using, and the AFL have seen it too.”
Tight Finish Adds To The Debate
McRae said the issue was not only the call itself, but whether the current system gives officials enough vision to make the right decision.
“The decision itself is what it is, but the technology doesn’t show the full picture.
“It misses a frame.
“It probably looked like it was touched, but insufficient evidence, we’ve got technology that’s there to be used. Not sure why the AFL are resisting using it. Now, I’m not privy to any conversation, other than I’ve seen the footage.”
The coach said a private company had shown him stronger frame-by-frame tools, and argued the league should not be left with unclear footage in 2026.
“This is a pretty amazing, tight competition, with big stakes and grand finals decided by inconclusive footage.
“Not sure that’s the world we want to live in in 2026.”
The official Australian Football League website carries competition news, scores and match information. Collingwood also benefited from a third-quarter review when Harry Perryman touched Harry Sheezel’s shot on goal.
