Collingwood Football Club faced a significant challenge on Friday night as they suffered a loss to the Gold Coast Suns, exposing both vulnerabilities and strengths. Despite being at the top of the ladder with 14 wins and three losses, this match highlighted the complexities ahead for coach Craig McRae as he navigates the remainder of the season.
The game unfolded in a remarkable fashion. Collingwood did not score a goal until the third quarter and found themselves trailing by 40 points (7.7 to 0.9). However, they managed to shift momentum dramatically, taking the lead in the final quarter, thanks to a crucial goal from Jamie Elliott. Yet, it was the exceptional play of Noah Anderson that ultimately secured the victory for the Suns, marking a pivotal moment in their season.
This match was billed as a test of Gold Coast’s resolve, but it also raised questions about Collingwood’s championship prospects. Despite their current position, the Magpies demonstrated that they can be beaten by quality opponents and that overcoming them requires sustained effort throughout the match. This defeat was their first since the night of the federal election, a loss that came after a string of strong performances.
As the season progresses, Collingwood’s performance mirrors that of the Sydney Swans during the same period last year. The Swans, with a similar win-loss ratio, found themselves facing cracks in their game plan that were exploited by the Brisbane Lions during the grand final. For Collingwood, achieving two wins in their remaining six matches should ensure a top-four finish, while three or four additional victories may be necessary to secure a top-two berth.
Collingwood’s strengths lie in three key areas. First, their squad depth has improved with the additions of Dan Houston, Harry Perryman, and Tim Membrey. This increase in capable players provides a solid foundation for the team, although they rely heavily on key players like Darcy Moore and Nick Daicos.
Second, the leadership within the team is exceptional. The impact of Scott Pendlebury was evident when he took the field after halftime, replacing Jeremy Howe, who was sidelined due to injury. Pendlebury’s presence as a seasoned leader significantly alters the dynamic on the field.
Lastly, Collingwood has developed a robust system of play, often referred to as “the Fly trap,” which challenges opponents to work hard for scores. Even when they faced adversity in the match against the Suns, they managed to restrict their opponents to 69 points, demonstrating their defensive capabilities.
Despite these strengths, Collingwood has weaknesses that could hinder their performance in the coming weeks. The team can struggle in the midfield, often losing control of contests and clearances. Additionally, their reliance on experienced players, including Steele Sidebottom, raises concerns about the longevity and sustainability of their performance as the season progresses.
As the team prepares for the final stretch of the season, McRae faces difficult decisions regarding player management. Jordan De Goey, who has struggled with injuries this season, presents a dilemma. If he returns to form, McRae must decide whose position he would reclaim, especially considering the potential impact De Goey could have in crucial matches.
The return of Tom Mitchell also poses questions for McRae’s strategy. While Mitchell had a strong performance against Carlton, he struggled with pace against the Suns and may not fit seamlessly into the midfield alongside veteran players. The tactical adjustments made during the game, such as moving Josh Daicos into the midfield and allowing Dan Houston more freedom to attack, could become a recurring strategy as Collingwood aims to maintain its top position.
The defeat to the Suns was not without its silver linings. Collingwood demonstrated resilience, managing to rally from a significant deficit while missing several key players, including Brody Mihocek, Pat Lipinski, and Bobby Hill. As the season continues, McRae will need to focus on managing player fitness and morale while striving to secure a strong final standing.
As the Magpies navigate these challenges, the team is reminded of past seasons where they encountered similar late-season hurdles. The 2011 season serves as a cautionary tale, where momentum was lost leading into the finals. With history in mind, McRae’s focus will likely be on managing both physical and mental aspects as the team pushes for a second premiership within three seasons.
The upcoming matches will be crucial in determining the final makeup of the team, as Collingwood strives to maintain its competitive edge in the AFL.
