Collingwood showed the best version of themselves in Saturday's Round 21 VFL clash against Geelong at Victoria Park. After last weekend's defeat to Werribee, it was up to Josh Fraser's men to respond, and respond they did. 

It was a slow start for both sides, but a three-goal burst to finish the first quarter set-up the Pies leading into the first break. The midfield and forward groups displayed great connection with Campbell Hustwaite, Tom Wilson, Josh Carmichael and Reef McInnes all kicking goals in the opening quarter.

That narrative continued into the second quarter. Josh Carmichael finished the first half with three goals and thirteen disposals.

Geelong started the second half with great intent, however, the Pies kicked seven of the next nine goals, extending their lead to 56 points at the final break.

Collingwood Forward Reef McInnes kicked two goals in the fourth quarter to take his total to four the day, with the Pies winning by 74 points. 

The key takeaways:

It was a vintage display from co-captains Lachlan Tardrew and Campbell Hustwaite on Saturday afternoon. Their leadership in the midfield proved to be one of the major contributing factors to Collingwood's success throughout the game. Tardrew (32 disposals and one goal) and Hustwaite (21 disposals and two goals) were able to get their hands on the ball consistently.

Mason Cox once again played above the level.. 52 hit-outs, 16 disposals, six clearances and five marks in wet conditions, Cox was significant in the ruck all afternoon, with his ability to dominate in the air crucial to team success.

Dynamic forward Reef McInnes demonstrated impressive forward craft, resulting in a bag of four goals for the afternoon. What was equally impressive was McInnes' ability to play minutes in the midfield too. McInnes finished with 16 disposals, six marks, four tackles and two clearances. 

11 different players contributed to the score sheet on Saturday afternoon. A stat that reflects the fantastic connection and cohesion throughout the team, but also a real insight into the team-based game Collingwood is so good at executing. In addition to McInnes, Tom Wilson (three), Josh Carmichael (three), Joe Richards (two) and Campbell Hustwaite (two), all contributed multiple majors. 

COLLINGWOOD 20.9 129

GEELONG 8.7 (55)

GOALS
McInnes (4), Wilson (3), Carmichael (3), Richards (2), Hustwaite (2), Murley, Tardrew, Kreuger, Bianco, Begg, Allan

BEST
Tardrew, Carmichael, Trent Bianco, Macrae, McInnes, Hustwaite

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