AFL can't trace cash bets: TAB PATRICK BARTLEY
May 7, 2010

PLAYERS and officials who wish to flout the AFL code of conduct by gambling on football have endless opportunities, as long as they are prepared to bet in cash and not use a registered account.

A Tabcorp official admitted yesterday it was ''just a matter of strolling to your local pub-TAB'', if anyone from the AFL wished to have a wager on a football game''.

''All they have to do is walk into a TAB anywhere in the state and hand over their money and you will get set. You are anonymous, just another punter off the street,'' Tabcorp media manager Glenn Munsie said.

''A pub-TAB is the same and they can even use our betting machines called EBTs. These wagers can only be picked up if you have a registered account. And that's how the ruling body [AFL] can detect if you are wagering on football.''

Munsie said that when the AFL had suspicions about people from football, they issued Tabcorp with a list of names. ''All we do is run a program of the names against our account holders and then report back if anything untoward arises.''

On Wednesday, AFL goal umpire Chris Appleton was stood down for the rest of the season, as were two interchange stewards, while a timekeeper was banned from officiating for five matches, as part of a blitz on gambling.

Port Adelaide assistant coach Matthew Primus was suspended for two games, and the Western Bulldogs were fined $7500 because of a breach by director Geoff Walsh.

A spokesman for Betfair said yesterday: ''When customers register with us they consent to sharing their registered information [name, address etc] with sports bodies.

''The AFL can request that information [as they have done in this case], or we can pass it on should we deem it's necessary.

''Each year we receive an updated database of registered AFL players and officials - just as we do with licensed persons in racing. The more data they can provide, the easier the monitoring process.

''The fact that several of the [AFL] breaches were uncovered through an information-sharing arrangement with bookmakers, at least showed that the system was working.''

Betstar's managing director Alan Eskander said he was impressed by the AFL's tough stance.

"By making this decision, the AFL has sent a clear message that they are serious about protecting the integrity of the sport,'' he said.

"Sports betting is now a huge part of the Australian culture, so these steps are necessary to protect participants at all levels, including players, punters, officials and fans.''

While applauding the AFL for its swift action, Eskander felt it might need to review the penalties it imposed.

"Appleton was suspended for the rest of 2010 for having a bet on last year's grand final. I'm surprised at this harsh penalty given he was not working on the match. I can't help but feel sorry for this bloke, who suddenly doesn't have a job.''