The AFL has turned to referee Matt Stevic after a controversial decision in the Hawks’ win over the Blues.
Matt Stevic in action during Melbourne’s match against Greater Western Sydney in the first round, 2025. Photo: AFL Photos
Veteran judge Matt Stevic was chosen to officiate the 19th round.
Stevic made a mistake when he awarded a 50-metre penalty against Carlton midfielder Adam Serra after calling play on Saturday night.
Hawthorn forward Jack Ginnivan went from a hard shot outside 50 on a wet road to a first-quarter shot into the net which he converted in a 64-point win at the MCG.
Stevic has come under scrutiny since then, but he is one of the most experienced referees in the league and will be officiating this weekend.
The 46-year-old has refereed 532 games – the third-most in VFL/AFL history behind Brett Rosebery and Simon Meredith – since starting his career in 2004.
Stevic is also one of the most decorated umpires of all time, having officiated a record 12 Grand Finals and 63 Finals, and was named an All-Australian umpire eight times.