We’re number one. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)Source: Getty ImagesAFL boss Gillon McLachlan said the book launch was a heavy night, but said the topic would for sure open up the debate.
“I am not here today to confirm Colin’s thesis … but nor am I here to dispute his conclusions,” McLachlan said at the launch.
“That’s for our historians, our clubs to examine closely and no doubt expand the debate.”
Carter argues the only reason the date hasn’t changed is due to bitter politics between the leagues.
The AFL considers the sport’s start date 1897, but Carter says that date is wrong and needs to be amended.
Essendon fans won’t be on-board for the change of start date with the club desperately clinging to their spot on top of the premiership pile.
Bombers fans haven’t tasted finals glory since September 4, 2004 when they defeated Melbourne by five points at the MCG.
A whopping 6,724 days have passed since that last September success. A time frame which has included six elimination finals losses.
Changing the record books to include the missing 27-years of the VFA would only add to their pain and give Carlton fans the upper hand.