A forthright Murphy described night games as a “joke”.

While acknowledging there were financial benefits for some clubs, Murphy said playing under lights was not helping the standard of the game in the BFL.

He said his stance was not a criticism of the lighting – rather that of playing on greasy grounds when there was an option to play in perfect conditions at the same venue on the same day. 

Murphy told The Courier that it was ridiculous to be playing on a wet, dewy surface when just hours earlier conditions were dry and ideal.

"I know they do it for the crowds, but crowds are still going to turn up during the day when the game is going to be a better spectacle.”

Melton played their first two games of the season at night – against Melton South at its home ground McPherson Park and Sunbury at Clark Oval.

Murphy said Melton would be requesting that it not be scheduled for any night games next season.

The BFL has already announced plans to expand its night match program in 2017 and a desire to play night finals as early as next year.

The BFL has had four night matches this season. 

As well as Melton’s two games, there have been night games at Wendouree and Alfredton. Each was a first at the venues.

The BFL also has access to Eureka Stadium for night fixtures. One more night game is scheduled – Sunbury v Melton South on May 14.