An incidental stat is now becoming an affirming trend. Collingwood are fast gaining a reputation as the VFL’s streak destroyers, as Kane Hunkin reports.
Last year, the Magpies stopped a Port Melbourne team coming off an undefeated 2011 premiership season and an unblemished start to 2012, and claimed a memorable round 8 win. The Borough halted. The biggest streak stopped.
Fast forward less than 12 months and Collingwood have repeated the dose. This time besting another reigning premiership outfit, Geelong – once again, a side previously undefeated in the season.
While underdogs in both, it would be disrespectful, particularly this year, to suggest Collingwood have a standing as a lucky and overly fortuitous team.
Last Saturday, Collingwood, in an impressive and well-planned display, took the four points against the visiting Cats, winning by 13 points. Streak ending history repeating at Victoria Park.
It was the red-time of quarters where Collingwood did most damage. Three goals in the last five minutes of the second quarter and the last two of the third term were crucial.
It was at both ends where Collingwood excelled. Jackson Paine showed a glimpse of his potential and possibilities, kicking five goals in a solid, if not, decisive game.
Similarly, Corey Gault’s shut down job on key position player Nathan Vardy, limiting the Cats forward to just one goal was equally significant.
The inclusions of primary-listed players Alan Didak, Ben Hudson and Ben Sinclair were just the icing on an already very sweet cake for Collingwood during the afternoon.
The win sets the side up well for the rest of 2013. Perennial September spectators in previous years, the Pies now sit eighth on the ladder having split the difference with three wins and three losses so far this year.
After claiming the scalp of Geelong, Victoria Park again hosts a classic and perhaps nostalgic contest this Saturday. Collingwood welcome arch rivals Essendon to their turf. Sentiment aside, back-to-back wins provides an ideal launching pad for the Magpies going into the season’s middle months.
Last Modified on 24/05/2013 16:33