Magpies survive GWS run
AN INACCURATE Collingwood has survived a stunning last-quarter fightback from Greater Western Sydney to hold on for a nerve-racking 11point win at the MCG on Sunday and re-enter the top eight.
The Magpies seemed to be cruising towards a huge victory at three-quarter time when they led by a game-high 37 points, but the margin should have been a lot greater considering they had almost tripled GWS for scoring shots at that point of the game (26-9).
It meant the door was left ajar for the visitors and they came charging through, kicking seven goals to two in the final term to get within 10 points with just under five minutes remaining.
However, after a tense finish, the hosts were able to keep GWS at bay.
The 11.22 (88) to 12.5 (77) victory helped the Magpies put a drama-filled week behind them.
The Pies went into the clash without Jordan De Goey, who was on personal leave after copping a suspended $25,000 fine from the club for his behaviour while on holiday in Bali during the bye.
But even without De Goey, the Magpies managed to string five wins in a row for the first time since 2019.
The Magpies finished with decisive victories in contested possessions (137-123), clearances (36-28), inside 50s (62-50) and scoring shots (33-17).
Collingwood veteran Steele Sidebottom turned the clock back to play one of his best games of the season. He had 26 touches, eight score involvements and a goal, while Darcy Cameron produced another huge performance in the ruck with 17 disposals, eight marks, 23 hit-outs, five clearances and two goals.
Youngster Nick Daicos also did a good job of negating GWS ace Toby Greene.