The AFL has quietly wound back the interpretation of the controversial dissent rule, per reports from the Herald Sun.
The rule, which was introduced at the beginning of the season, has caused much debate among pundits and players alike, with several paid 50 metre penalties driving conversation around the game.
News Corp has reported that the umpires have now been told to tolerate certain emotion from players, as long as it isn't disrespectful.
The new interpretation reportedly came about last week, with league bosses highlighting a controversial decision against Collingwood's Jordon De Goey as something that should no longer be judged as a penalty.
The incident, which happened in Round 9, saw the Magpie hit with a 50-metre penalty after raising his arms in the air following a free kick, which resulted in a Bulldogs goal. The decision was met with outrage from fans.
Despite this reported new wind back, the AFL is seemingly happy with the dissent rule, specifically its impact at junior level.
“The players have continued to adapt, and are adapting well, as are the umpires,” an AFL spokesperson told The Herald Sun.
“It is having the desired effect on reducing umpire dissent on field and having a positive impact at the junior level we wanted.
“Everyone is playing their part as the season progresses.”
Across the six matches of Round 12, just one dissent free kick was paid, days after the AFL reportedly informed umpires to return to a more lax interpretation of the rule.
Bulldog Adam Treloar was pinged for his outstretched arms, but was not hit with a 50-metre penalty.
AFL sources, reported by The Age, admitted that the league informed umpires the decision would not be communicated with players, clubs or fans.