Magpies Suffer Injury Blows Ahead of Brisbane Showdown
Collingwood’s impressive 33-point victory over Greater Western Sydney (GWS) at Marvel Stadium has been overshadowed by significant injury concerns to two key figures: skipper Darcy Moore and veteran Scott Pendlebury. Both are now in serious doubt for the Magpies’ highly anticipated blockbuster clash against Brisbane.
The Magpies secured a 13.9 (87) to 7.12 (54) win, with a standout performance from Nick Daicos, who was instrumental in a crucial five-goal burst across the third and fourth quarters that ultimately sealed the deal. However, the victory came at a price.
Moore’s Hamstring Scare
Darcy Moore, who was making his return from a calf injury, experienced hamstring awareness in his right leg late in the opening quarter. The incident occurred as he was kicking out of defence, prompting him to head directly to the rooms.
While the 30-year-old returned to the field in the second term and managed to play out the remainder of the game, coach Craig McRae expressed significant concern. “It’s hamstring awareness,” McRae stated. “For those following his rehab, he had the same thing about 10 to 12 days ago, and we just thought, ‘no risk, no risk, no risk.’ But we’re in the game, and you go, ‘can he push through, can he take some minutes?’ Because it’s important in terms of rotations and things, if he could take some minutes without risk. He’s not right, not 100 percent. So, has he done a hamstring? I’m not sure. I don’t think so… but I’d say he’s unlikely next week.”
Pendlebury’s Achilles Tightness
Adding to Collingwood’s woes, veteran Scott Pendlebury was already slated to miss the upcoming trip north to face Brisbane on Easter Thursday. However, the 38-year-old was forced out of Friday night’s match in the third quarter due to Achilles tightness.
This setback will delay Pendlebury’s pursuit of the all-time VFL/AFL games record. Currently on 428 appearances, he is inching closer to Brent Harvey’s record, but this latest issue puts that milestone on hold.
Nick Daicos Steals the Show
Despite the injury concerns, Collingwood’s move to a 2-1 win-loss record was propelled by a superb performance from young gun Nick Daicos. His 36 disposals were crucial, but it was his two vital goals in the third quarter that truly turned the tide of the match.
GWS Woes Continue
The GWS Giants, now sitting at 1-3, were hampered by the absence of key players including Sam Taylor, Aaron Cadman, Brent Daniels, and Toby Bedford. However, coach Adam Kingsley was quick to point out that these absences did not excuse their poor performance, particularly their wasteful goal-kicking and inability to effectively transition the ball inside their forward 50.
“Kind of the same as last week against St Kilda – didn’t maximise our entries, our opportunities,” Kingsley admitted. “I thought Collingwood defended well in the moments that they needed to, but our connection is nowhere near where it needs to be at the moment.”
Collingwood’s defence, marshalled by Billy Frampton, was particularly effective, shutting down GWS forward Jesse Hogan, who finished the match goalless.
Other Noteworthy Performances
- Josh Daicos: Despite hurting his left shoulder in a first-quarter tackle, Josh Daicos played out the game and amassed 33 disposals.
- Oscar Steene: The Collingwood ruck debutant, Oscar Steene, proved an inspired selection. He dominated Kieren Briggs in the ruck with 20 hitouts and kicked a memorable maiden AFL goal from a strong contested mark.
- Tim Membrey: The Magpies’ forward Tim Membrey was in fine form, booting three goals in the opening quarter and finishing the match with a total of four.
- GWS Midfielders: For the Giants, Finn Callaghan (35 disposals), Lachie Whitfield (39 disposals), and the highly-rated Clayton Oliver (37 disposals, 10 clearances) were prominent figures in a losing effort.
Collingwood established an early lead, capitalising on their chances while GWS faltered. The Giants managed to narrow the margin to three points early in the third quarter, but the Magpies then significantly lifted their intensity, putting the game beyond doubt with an impressive display. GWS will now have the bye to regroup.
