Talking Footy

This is a free country and even the Prime Minister can be and often is criticized by the public and others in office.
Now, in saying that, I would like to know why AFL referees are so protected and shielded against any criticism that the public, fans or teams may have for them.

It seems like these referees can make any decisions they want without any form of repercussions.
Also, when it has been established that they did indeed make some errors, even then, nothing was done about it. No fines, no demotions, no retraining, no slap on the wrist, no reduction is pay, not even a public apology.
In other sports, there would have been some sort of repercussion, so why not in AFL?

Also, other sports have now moved onto video referees to ensure that mistakes are not made on the field. Also, captains may challenge referee decisions if they feel unfairly done by, and the video referee will make a judgement.

So why is the AFL so far behind in making referee rulings and decisions accountable and challengeable on the field?

Also, the game between Sydney Swans and Gold Coast Suns was a great example of this referee injustice. Swans players were indiscriminately kicked and attacked, yet no free kicks were awarded.

What do you guys think about this?

I think no matter what sport there is errors in games,

Look at the NFL and all of it stoppages and challenges and reviews
and they still miss calls and get things wrong.

being a ref or umpire is one hard job.

Video Ref can be good but it slows down the game
and can have effect on momentum

Crucial calls yes but not everything