The Magpies will need to improve on their second half performance last weekend if they want to notch a critical win over the Blues on Friday. Collingwood headed into the third term leading by 11-points before a seven goal burst by the Hawks made it a near-impossible margin to cover in the last quarter.
Last time - round 8, 2009
Last time these two sides played the Magpies named an undermanned side, which the Blues ran over the top of by 51 points.
Carlton piled on 16 goals led by small forward Eddie Betts who booted four. Leading forward Brendan Fevola was held goalless by veteran defender and All-Australian contender Simon Prestigiacomo.
Magpies to consider
Marty Clarke: The running defender was one of the VFL’s best in the loss on the weekend racking up 28 possessions in trying conditions. Clarke dueled against Carlton’s Heath Scotland and Nick Stevens, containing both players for most of the match.
Ben Reid: Another strong performance in the VFL has given clout to Reid’s return to the senior level. The tall Magpie has found a niche playing as a key defender and could be in line for the job on number one draft pick in 2007, Matthew Kreuzer.
Chris Bryan: Played in the opening match of the AFL season before moving to the VFL for the rest of the season, Bryan has showed he can play the role of a key forward. Bryan is leading the side in goals (29) including kicking three on the weekend. The former Blue (2005-06) could be recalled for this week’s match to assist the depleted ruck department if Josh Fraser doesn’t get up.
Chris Dawes: Named on the emergency bench last week, Dawes has impressed the coaching staff with the consistent work ethic he has displayed at the VFL. The 193-centimetre forward featured in one senior game this yearkicking two goals against Fremantle in round 13.
Name your starting 22 Magpie players below!
