Is AFL sticking it up MCC ?

[ajmart]

I notice the AFL has only scheduled the minimum contract of 41 games at the MCG in 2003.

This number include 4 Freo games, which will not be big draw cards and excludes some expected big crowd pullers which have been scheduled at Colonial when the MCG is free.

Less games and poorer crowds at the MCG means there will be a shift of money from MCG to Colonial.

The MCC did not want to entertain the possibility of not having a preliminary final as it would lose money but 4, 5 or 6 fewer games through the year may achieve exactly the same result.

I wonder whether the AFL has done this on purpose.

 

[i_luv_westcoast]

Hadn't thought about it like that, but you could be on to something. I was surprised to see Freo has so many games at the MCG next year.

 

[Gopies 2002]

With the construction works talking place at the MCG next year, ground capacity and accessibility will be limited.

This could be the reason for the reduced number of games.

 

[hourn]

good point, hopefully they are.

I dont think it would be done on accident, especially considering they did so much planning (although who knows how true that is) into this seasons draw.

 

[PrideofSA]

Originally posted by i_luv_westcoast
Hadn't thought about it like that, but you could be on to something. I was surprised to see Freo has so many games at the MCG next year.

Freo is getting their share of "Finals" type games at the MCG because they haven't and won't see it in the finals!

 

[redi/whitei]

Why would the AFL do any favours for the MCG/MCC!!!!
If I was running the AFL I would program as many Melb clubs/Interstate clubs as possible.

Maybe the AFL should just draw up a new contract that would guarantee the MCG/MCC a blockbuster game every week, in exchange for a fairer home final system (remembering that it is just not prelims that are the problem).

Just having a quick look at the draw, the MCG/MCC has been punished.

 

[Damp Squarie]

Are there any Freo supporters out there happy with the draw (MCG)?

 

[snakebite01]

If it's true then it's fair enough. The AFL bends over backwards for the MCC and gets nothing in return. Well done.