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'That's too harsh': Rushed behind rule causes more controversy

The AFL's deliberate rushed behind rule has caused controversy yet again after Richmond's David Astbury was pinged against Melbourne.

In the first quarter of the Monday night clash, Astbury was tracking back on a long Demons kick when he tapped the ball towards his own goal before fumbling it over the line.

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The umpire immediately pinged him for a deliberate rushed behind, with Jesse Hogan slotting a goal from the ensuing free kick.

Astbury pinged. Image: Channel 7
Astbury pinged. Image: Channel 7

"Any time the umpire thinks you can take possession of the ball and keep the ball in play they're going to pay it against you," Hawthorn's Luke Hodge said in commentary.

"There was no pressure(on Astbury) and the umpire wants to see you keep the ball in play.

"As much as the supporters hate it, I reckon it's the best thing for the game."

Cameron Ling agreed with the call but thought they penalty didn't fit the crime.

"Is that too harsh a penalty though, a guaranteed goal?" Ling asked.

"I agree that is deliberate but a certain goal is too harsh for me."

Fans were also divided on social media: