Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir has responded to images of umpire headshots in the changerooms last week, admitting he was baffled by the public reaction.
The Dockers had photos of all four field umpires visible to broadcast cameras in their rooms during their win over North Melbourne, something that was picked up by both broadcasters and wider national media.
Fox Footy’s Jack Riewoldt was amused by the photos at the time, labelling them “mugshots”, while others have mentioned they may be displayed in an attempt to get an edge with the umpires.
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The umpire ‘mugshots’ last week. Seven
Longmuir felt the coverage of the photos was making “a mountain out of a mole hill”, saying it’s something they have done for most of his time at the club.
“It wasn’t a specific tactic, someone just decided to put them up somewhere different,” the Freo coach said after his side’s win over Essendon on Thursday night.
“It is astonishing it got picked up last week and it was made something of.
“We’ve been doing it for four years I reckon. There’s nothing sinister about it.
“We want our players and staff to understand who is umpiring the game. It’s not to get a benefit the wrong way or right way.”
Freo coach Justin Longmuir. via Getty Images
The photos were reportedly not visible to cameras before the Essendon game. They were likely hidden given the commotion.
However, they have been seen during Fremantle games at Optus Stadium earlier in the year.
Freo was far too strong for a battered Essendon on Thursday night, picking up a 41-point win.
Star ruckman Luke Jackson dominated, winning 48 hit-outs and kicking three goals to go with 21 disposals, while midfielder Caleb Serong found 35 touches and kicked two himself.
