PLUCK OF THE IRISH PROVIDE ADDED EDGE FOR COLLINGWOOD

COLLINGWOOD has all the tools for an AFLW premiership tilt.

A star-studded midfield, dynamic defence and dangerous forward line proved too much for the Tigers to handle at Punt Road Oval. And the scariest thing is the Pies did it without star ruck Sharni Norder.

Another Britt Bonnici midfield masterclass meant playing without a recognised ruck didn’t hurt Collingwood too much, despite losing the hitouts 29-7.

A career-best game for livewire Irish forward Aishling Sheridan was capped with two goals from deep in the Punt Rd pockets, while Ruby Schleicher continued her All-Australian level start to the season.

A blockbuster Saturdaynight clash at Marvel Stadium against highly fancied North Melbourne shapes as the perfect test for Collingwood next week. The Pies were smashed in hit-outs without Norder, but it didn’t stop the midfield stars from putting up huge numbers.

Britt Bonnici is compiling an All Australian-worthy season as Collingwood’s ball magnet and led the way for the Pies again with 31 disposals.

Co-captain Bri Davey popped up exactly where she was needed, whether it was on the last line of defence or kicking a goal after pushing forward.

The 26-year-old finished with 25 disposals and a goal, while Jaimee Lambert’s positioning around the contest helped her collect 25 disposals.

The cornerstone of Collingwood’s premiership push will come from its forward line, and notably its Irish duo Sheridan and Sarah Rowe. Sheridan’s uncanny ability to impact in the air and on the ground makes her the perfect foil for Chloe Molloy.

The former Gaelic footballer kicked two of the better goals of the season, running away from Richmond defenders and kicking both goals from 40m out on tight angles.