Scott Pendlebury hopes the atmosphere and occasion of Collingwood's traditional Anzac Day clash with Essendon will lead to a "spike" in effort from his side after another disappointing showing against Melbourne.

The Magpies' 35-point loss to the Demons was their third from four games this season and followed a five-goal defeat to an injury-hampered St Kilda the previous week.

"It's really important that we have a good showing, and there's no better day than Anzac Day," Pendlebury said.

"It wasn't like last week was the only week we haven't put a good performance in. So we know the pressure is on us, we know the pressure's on our football club.

"We play AFL and all eyes are on us. So I think all the guys know and acknowledge that, and we hope there's a real spike this week," he said.

Coach Nathan Buckley has foreshadowed changes to the side that lost to Melbourne and Pendlebury said mature-age rookie Rupert Wills and American giant Mason Cox were both chances to make their debuts on Anzac Day, saying they have been "outstanding" in their brief time at Collingwood.

"Mason's a unique story, coming from America, and he's shown a bit in the NAB Cup," Pendlebury said.

"And Rupe (is) the same, a contested ball animal, and you certainly don't need to worry about his effort," he said.

Pendlebury wasn’t happy with some of Collingwood’s efforts last week, and said they didn’t play four quarters of football.

“We had 97 or 98 tackles last week, so the effort was a lot better, but saying that, you can’t just rock up and play two-and-a-half quarters of AFL football, it’s just not going to get it done,” Pendlebury said.

“It was certainly better than what we have dished up, but it’s still below AFL standard.”

Travis Cloke is no certainty to play after injuring his right elbow against Melbourne, and Pendlebury said he needs to do more than hit the scoreboard.

“Everyone looks at him and thinks he needs to kick five or six goals, but we need him to pressure and get tackles, crash packs, those little things that are so strong in his game,” he said.

The Anzac Day clash is always a big event, and Pendlebury said his side were looking forward to the occasion.

“It’s such a big day, and it’s almost disrespecting it a bit when you talk about footy and the links between our game and war.

“Every year Anzac Day is such a special occasion. Both clubs acknowledge that and want to play well in it,” he said.