Controversial Umpiring Call Leaves Nicks Unimpressed
Adelaide coach Matthew Nicks has refused to comment on a controversial late non-call that decided the game against Essendon on Friday night. The Crows lost by three points.
Nicks said he would not comment on umpiring decisions as it would only add to the negative atmosphere of the night.
Crows rue missed opportunities
Instead, Nicks pointed to a host of missed opportunities on the field.
"We found our aggression and assertiveness, but where had that been for the night? That was another disappointing part," Nicks said.
"Where has that been?"
Essendon skipper concedes 'line-ball call'
Essendon skipper Zach Merrett conceded the decision not to pay a free kick for holding the ball against Draper was "a line-ball call".
Tight calls throughout the game
Bombers coach Brad Scott said there were plenty of tight calls throughout the game, not just in the final seconds.
"There were a lot of decisions on holding the ball for and against throughout the night," he said. "We will obviously focus on the one in the last couple of seconds. But I can show you a couple of others too if you like."
Nicks disappointed with slow start and poor inside-50 count
As he played down the late controversy, Nicks instead lamented his side's slow start and lacklustre inside-50 count.
"We lost the contest, we missed tackles, it was just a lot of areas that weren't working," he said.
"Our backs were to the wall and we hung in and hung in, but we expect so much more than that of where we're at at the moment.
"We would still be disappointed about the way we played the game tonight even if it went our way."
Scott sees win as confidence builder
Essendon coach Brad Scott said the win gave his side confidence heading into next week's Anzac Day clash against reigning premier Collingwood.
"Belief is something you build one step at a time, and we've taken another step tonight," he said.
"Anzac Day is an unbelievable privilege. It's a unique game.
"It's a huge occasion as a club, we're privileged to be able to put ourselves in a finals-like atmosphere in round seven against the reigning premier. So what an opportunity."