Last time we met

Collingwood 80 d Fremantle 44 (Round 10, 2022 at Optus Stadium)

Collingwood produced a high-pressure masterclass in the wet. The win was built on relentless tackling and hard work around the contest, with Jack Crisp (28 disposals, eight clearances), Taylor Adams (20 disposals, eight tackles) and Patrick Lipinski (29, six clearances) among our best. Ollie Henry starred, booting four goals after he was subbed in for Mason Cox in the second quarter.

Key matchups

Jack Crisp v Caleb Serong

Serong was arguably Fremantle's most important player in his side's comeback win over the Bulldogs, notching 33 disposals, 10 clearances, 16 contested possessions and five score involvements. The 21-year-old sparked his side with a goal from a stoppage late in the second term as the Dockers went on to kick seven of the next eight goals. Crisp has consistently produced stirring individual performances this year. He's one of our leading ball-winners, averaging 23 disposals, nine contested possessions, four clearances and five score involvements. Both capable of having a significant impact on the game.

Scott Pendlebury v Andrew Brayshaw

Two pivotal cogs in their respective midfields. A first-time All Australian this season, Brayshaw averages 29 disposals (at 73 percent efficiency), four clearances and six score involvements a game. It goes without saying that Pendlebury will be a key contributor and will lead his team by example. Finished our Qualifying Final with 34 disposals, 15 contested possessions, seven intercepts and six score involvements.

Look out for

Collingwood will again set the tone early - expect another high-pressure game. Craig McRae is no stranger to finals footy and his side showed up with the intensity befitting the stage in week one. The Pies finished with 85 tackles against the Cats, winning the tackle count by 15. Relentless pressure was a huge factor in our round 10 win over the Dockers, we will see more of the same on Saturday night.