Collingwood have cemented themselves as a force to be reckoned with after thumping Essendon by 49 points to win the 24th annual Anzac Day clash at the MCG on Wednesday afternoon.
After a spine-tingling minute of silence amongst 90 000 people at the MCG, it was a hard-fought first term, with both sides trading goals and swapping the lead, the Pies going into the first term break with a 7-point lead.
It was the second term where the Pies broke the game open, who managed to find space and time along the wings, while Essendon struggled to find targets inside their 50, skill errors costing them dearly as they only kicked one goal for the quarter, Collingwood going into the break with a 17-point advantage.
The third quarter was not much better, with Collingwood holding the Dons defensively, whilst finding space amongst the tiring Bombers, as men inside their 50 became open. Essendon could not manage to kick a goal, and faced a monumental challenge in the last quarter, trailing by 30 points.
A 50-meter penalty early in the fourth quarter saw Adam Treloar kick an easy goal, and put the game to bed, as Essendon were only able to kick three more goals for the game, the Pies running out 49 point victors.
Adam Treloar had an outstanding game, with 34 disposals and two goals, while Steele Sidebottom again had a fantastic game, with 25 touches and three goals to his name.
Essendon were led by David Zaharakis with 34 disposals himself, with Brendan Goddard and Zach Merrett earning 33 disposals themselves.
It was a bitterly disappointing result for the Bombers, whose struggles entering inside 50 and basic skill errors saw them struggle to put together any solid bits of play.
They travel back to Etihad Stadium next Sunday, where they face a hugely important clash against Melbourne, who were equally as disappointing last night against Richmond. Whoever loses that will face falling away out of touch from the top eight.
Collingwood, meanwhile, will take on Richmond in what is shaping up to be a massive clash, with a huge crowd expected. It will be a big chance for Collingwood to defeat both grand finalists inside three weeks.
Josh Green and Josh Begley were amongst the injuries, with a hamstring and leg injury to be looked at throughout the week.
Final score
Collingwood Magpies 14.17.101
Essendon Bombers 7.10.52
Who’s in your ultimate team? Pick the best team and compete with other fans for daily prizes on Draftstars. For the best odds on the game try out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Think. Is this a bet you really want to place? Set a deposit limit.
Geelong coach Chris Scott has hit out at the AFL Tribunal's decision to clear Charlie Cameron for his dangerous tackle on Jake Lever, saying…
Collingwood premiership defender Nathan Murphy has been forced into a premature and immediate AFL retirement through concussion to prioritise a "full and healthy life"…
It’s high stakes with five teams having lost their first three games of season 2024, and in desperate need of a win.
It could be a weekend for contenders to emerge, teams to hopefully break droughts, o and overall footy to have a party.
We’ve already seen what Jack Ginnivan is capable of at Collingwood with his ability to grasp big moments - how will he go against his former teammates?
Collingwood veteran Scott Pendlebury has escaped suspension for his uncharacteristic off-the-ball whack on Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale. Neale was left doubled over in…
