Stats show how home grounds affect umpires

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick took exception to the umpires following the Tigers' loss to Geelong on Saturday, suggesting the Cats were aided by a few home ground decisions.

Hardwick said in his post-match press conference the crowd gets behind the umpires, and told the media to "have a look at the free kick count".

“It is what it is. What I will say is you’ve got a significant home ground advantage," Hardwick added.

"I understand what (Geelong coach) Chris (Scott) is saying, I’d be playing as many home games here as I can. “It is tough to play. They’re an outstanding side, but they’re an outstanding side plus when it comes to playing here.”

While Hardwick may have felt his side was hard done by on the weekend, Geelong's home ground advantage is nothing compared to a Western Australian club, who receives more than double that of the next favourable side.

Since 2007, West Coast have received 602 more free kicks than their interstate opposition at Subiaco Oval, according to Champion Data's numbers.

During that time the Eagles have played 115 games, which means they average five more free kicks than their opposition does every game.

Port Adelaide are next in line, although from their 112 games, they only have a free kick differential of +295.

Home free kick differential against travelling sides

As for games played in Melbourne, the reigning premiers are getting the easiest run, with the Bulldogs gaining a differential of +228 from their 49 games.

Carlton (+185) and North Melbourne (+127)  are the only other two sides to have a differential over +100, as Richmond and Melbourne seem to get the raw end of the deal.

The Tigers (+14) and Demons (+3) are the two lowest Victorian sides, with Geelong having a better differential (+23) despite playing around 40 games less at the MCG/Etihad Stadium against interstate opposition.

Home free kick differential for Victorian clubs against interstate sides