Scott Pendlebury’s Historic Performance and the Possibility of a Record
Collingwood coach Craig McRae has suggested that fans may have to wait an extra week before witnessing Scott Pendlebury equal the AFL’s all-time games record. This comes after the veteran player delivered one of the finest performances of his 431-game career in a thrilling match against Essendon, securing a record fourth Anzac Medal during a historic day at the MCG.
Pendlebury, who is now 38 years old, showcased his brilliance with a career-best 43 disposals, two goals, 10 marks, four clearances, and an impressive 19 score involvements for the Magpies. His performance was supported by returning players such as Jordan De Goey, who contributed three goals and 18 disposals, and Nick Daicos, who recorded 42 disposals and eight clearances. The Magpies dominated in the latter stages of the game, securing a massive 20.17 (137) to 9.6 (60) victory.
The 77-point win marked the biggest ever on Anzac Day, surpassing Collingwood’s previous 73-point victory in 2008. Pendlebury was the standout performer, winning the best on ground vote and earning his fourth Anzac Medal, which places him ahead of Essendon legend James Hird as the most decorated player in the 31-year history of the traditional clash.
McRae praised Pendlebury’s performance, stating, “What we witnessed today, he’s a legend of our game, a legend of our footy club. To be able to do that now (at 38), we have no barriers on age, and no ceilings on performance. He’s remarkable, and every time we watch him perform we’re in awe.”
Potential Rest for Pendlebury
Pendlebury is set to equal North Melbourne legend Brent Harvey’s games record of 432 the next time he steps out for the Pies, which could occur in Thursday night’s MCG blockbuster against Hawthorn. However, McRae hinted that he might consider resting the veteran due to the short turnaround between matches.
This could mean that fans will have to wait until the Round 9 clash at Geelong to see Pendlebury equal the record. If he is rested for that game, it is likely that he will also be given a break for the Sydney game at the SCG in Round 10, allowing him to play a record-breaking 433rd AFL game against West Coast at the MCG on May 23.
McRae addressed Pendlebury’s chances of playing against Hawthorn during the post-game press conference, saying, “Probably think you’re unlikely,” about his chances. “We’ve got a five-day turnaround, and we’ll make decisions during the week, see how he pulls up. (Pendlebury spent) a lot of time on ground, which is great for today, but maybe not for next week.”
A Memorable Display
Pendlebury’s dazzling performance was capped off by a brilliant goal in the third term, where he weaved through defenders before slotting home. This goal helped spark a six-goal third-term onslaught that sealed the big win and had teammates and fans praising the evergreen AFL legend.
Steele Sidebottom, a teammate of Pendlebury, shared his admiration, saying, “I’ve been very, very lucky to have had front row seats for 80 per cent of his career, and people pay good money for that. It’s incredible what he is doing. He is 38 years old and still doing that. He might end up putting a space on the (AFL games) record, if he wants to.”
