Collingwood coach Craig McRae has launched a scathing critique of the AFL's video review technology, insisting it is 'not up to scratch' following his team's nail-biting four-point victory over North Melbourne on Friday night. The Magpies secured a thrilling 13.11 (89) to 12.13 (85) comeback win, but post-match discussions quickly turned to the contentious officiating system.

The controversy ignited in the final quarter when Collingwood wingman Patrick Lipinski appeared to have scored a crucial goal. The goal umpire's initial 'soft call' was a behind, citing a touch from North Melbourne's Cam Zurhaar. The decision was then referred to the AFL Review Centre (ARC) to determine if Zurhaar had made contact with the ball before it crossed the goal line.

After examining multiple replays, the ARC ultimately ruled there was "insufficient evidence to determine if the ball is touched before or after crossing the back of the goal line." This inconclusive ruling sparked a heated reaction from coach McRae, who made his frustrations clear in the post-game press conference.

"I've got a strong opinion," McRae stated, visibly agitated. "I don't often share it, but the technology is not up to scratch. I know that because I've seen technology out there that's way better than what we're using, and the AFL have seen it too." He further elaborated, claiming the current system "misses a frame" and fails to provide a comprehensive view of critical moments.

McRae questioned the league's reluctance to adopt superior technology, alluding to systems offered by private companies. "This is a pretty amazing, tight competition, with big stakes and grand finals decided by inconclusive footage. Not sure that's the world we want to live in in 2026," he argued, highlighting the significant impact such decisions can have on outcomes.

The AFL has previously cited the substantial cost of upgrading every venue that hosts an AFL match as a prohibitive factor. However, the irony was not lost on some, as Collingwood themselves benefited from an ARC decision in the third quarter when Harry Perryman was judged to have touched the ball, denying North Melbourne's Harry Sheezel a critical goal.

Despite the technological drama, Collingwood's comeback victory was a testament to their resilience. Key plays from the Daicos brothers, including Nick Daicos's pivotal run setting up Tim Membrey for the go-ahead goal, sealed the win. The result propelled Collingwood into seventh place on the ladder, while a heartbroken North Melbourne remained in 11th.

North Melbourne coach Alastair Clarkson acknowledged the exciting nature of the game for spectators but lamented his team's missed opportunities. "Disappointed we didn't have the polish to put the pressure on Collingwood," he commented, adding that for a young side, they sometimes "have to learn the hard way."