Daniher inspires actions over and above the game

AMONG the many inspirational words Neale Daniher has said in the past week, two words stand out for Melbourne and Collingwood.

The theme of his speech to the Demons before today’s AFL blockbuster against the Magpies was “Why not?” It’s a question that applies equally to Collingwood, with the two teams sensing something special is possible this season and they try to end significant finals droughts.

There has never been so much anticipation around the annual Melbourne- Collingwood Queen’s Birthday clash at the MCG.

Off the field, all 18 senior coaches will take the icy pre- game plunge in the fourth Freeze MND event, a fundraiser spearheaded by Daniher. It is the fourth year of the event and Daniher suspects this will be the last one where he can talk, as motor neurone disease slowly takes its toll on him. On the field, for once, the Queen’s Birthday clash is a legitimate blockbuster. Usual- ly, at least one team has come into the match with their season on the line.

Arguably the most notable Queen’s Birthday moment recently was when Collingwood roughed up No. 1 draft pick Jack Watts in his 2009 debut.

This year, Melbourne are fourth and on a six- game winning streak as they aim for their first since 2006.

Likewise, Collingwood have won their last three and are seventh. The Magpies have not made the top eight since the 2013 season.

But there are still question marks over the two teams and this mid- season clash could be season- defining. finals appearance