Collingwood will return to the MCG for the first time in 2024 this Friday night, as they take on the Sydney Swans in the Round One clash.
After going down to the GWS Giants in last week’s Opening Round, the Magpies will be looking to kick start their 2024 with a win. On a night that will be a celebration of the Magpie Army, the unfurling of the 2023 Premiership Flag will headline a range fan focused initiatives alongside the main event.
Last time they met
It is 313 days since the Magpies took on the Swans in Round Eight of 2023. The Sunday afternoon clash at the MCG saw the Pies run out 29-point winners thanks to a career high five goals from eventual season leading goal-kicker, Brody Mihocek.
It was the tale of the season for Collingwood, as the Magpies turned around an eight-point half-time deficit to snatch victory in the second half.
31 disposals from Scott Pendlebury, a career best 32 hit-outs from Billy Frampton and seven inside 50’s from Josh Daicos spearheaded the Magpies to victory.
Captain Darcy Moore was steadfast in defence, with eleven intercept possessions, while Jordan De Goey was influential with nine score involvements in front of 71,00 people at the MCG.
Ins and outs
Craig McRae has confirmed the returns of young midfielder Finlay Macrae and veteran defender Jeremy Howe to Collingwood’s side for the clash.
Macrae comes into the side after a dominant pre-season that saw him collect 10 disposals from just 36 per cent game time in Collingwood’s hit-out against Richmond.
Howe returns to the side after missing last week’s Opening Round Clash against the GIANTS with a calf complaint.
Marking his ninth season at Collingwood and 14th at AFL level, Howe will play career game 233 on Friday night. Across an injury interrupted 2023, Howe played 14 games averaging six marks, 3.1 contested possessions and 4.1 rebound 50s.
Key players to watch
After a strong pre-season, Macrae will be one to watch as he plays his first game since Round 24, 2023.
In his three seasons with the Magpies thus far, Macrae has played 12 games and averaged 11.3 disposals at AFL level, including being named as the substitute in Round 24, 2023.
After three goals in last week’s Opening Round clash, five-time leading goalkicker Brody Mihocek will again spearhead the forward line, while recruit Lachie Schultz will play his first Collingwood game at the MCG following six tackles last weekend.
Unfurling the Flag
2023 will be celebrated as Collingwood’s Premiership Flag is unfurled to the Magpie Army before the clash. With gates open from 5:30pm are encouraged to be in their seats early to ensure they don’t miss a minute of what is set to be an amazing spectacle.
The Welcome to Country ceremony will kick off proceedings at 6.16pm with the Premiership Flag Unfurling ceremony to commence at 6.24pm.
Fans are encouraged to visit the ‘Magpie Army Hub’ for all game-day details.
March to the ‘G
From 3pm, the Club will be open for the Magpie Army with the March to the ‘G activation to include a BBQ, food trucks, face painting, and giveaways. The Club’s Museum, café, and lounge will also be open to the public.
The March to the 'G, led by past player Paul Licuria, will depart the AIA Vitality Centre at 5.10pm.
Take in the action
The match will be broadcast live Channel Seven, Fox Footy and kayosports.com.au. For local broadcast information, visit the AFL website.
The Magpie Army can stay connected with the team via the Official Collingwood website and social media channels. Visit collingwoodfc.com.au, @collingwood_fc on Instagram and threads, @collingwoodfc on X (formerly Twitter), Collingwood Football Club on Facebook and YouTube for a range of behind-the-scenes content, the latest news and more.
Game details
Collingwood V Sydney Swans
MCG, Wurundjeri
Friday March 15, 7:40pm (AEDT)
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