Collingwood's VFL Team were defeated by 35-points in their Round 14 clash against Essendon at Windy Hill.
The Pies led the Bombers by two-points at the first break, and trailed by two at half-time, however, a dominant second half from Essendon ensured a win at home against their old rival.
Positive return for Ned Long
After 63-days out of the game due to a calf injury, 2024 mid-season draftee Ned Long showed promising signs upon his return at VFL level. He kicked a classy goal in the wet in the second quarter, complimented by a second in the fourth. Long finished with 13 disposals, six tackles, five clearances, and two goals.
Eyre provides a target
In just his third competitive game of the 2024 season, Josh Eyre showed strong signs of his value as a forward. The left-footer took four marks and finished with two goals in his 10 disposal game.
Bytel and Macrae reflect Midfield depth
The ever-consistent Jack Bytel and Finlay Macrae were again the standouts. Bytel finished with 28 disposals and eight clearances, while Macrae accumulated 24 disposals (14 contested), seven tackles, five inside-50s, and one goal.
McInnes dominates defensively
On a tough day for key forwards, Reef McInnes provided four quarters of effort, finishing with a match-high nine tackles. McInnes also kicked two goals on the run, expressing great composure in Collingwood's forward half.
The interceptors
The ever consistent Sam Glover was again strong in defence, finishing with 21 disposals - 11 of which were intercepts. Glover also finished with 85.7% disposal efficiency, demonstrating his poise in the defensive 50. Partnering Glover on 11 intercepts was Kaden Schreiber.
The Pies will now look towards their Round 15 clash against Frankston, to be played at Kinetic Stadium from 1.05pm on Sunday July 13.
COLLINGWOOD 1.3 5.5 6.6 9.9 (63)
ESSENDON 1.1 5.7 6.6 14.14 (98)
GOAL KICKERS: Reef McInness (2), Ned Long (2), Ash Johnson (2), Josh Eyre (2), Finlay Macrae
BEST: Reef McInnes, Harry DeMattia, Jack Bytel, Ned Long, Josh Eyre, Campbell Lane
