THE NEED to apply constant pressure and exercise patience in attack were vital aspects in Collingwood’s win over Adelaide according to midfielder Scott Pendlebury.

The Pies overturned an early third-quarter deficit to run out 21-point winners and imbed themselves inside the top four.

Collingwood boasts a remarkable interstate success rate and Pendlebury believes the side’s routine and togetherness are the keys in claiming the four points away from home.

“It’s the best interstate win of the year, for sure. The boys travel really well and we’ve got a good routine.

“We like the opportunity to get away because we only do it four times a year and we really thrive on the battle. I thought tonight the boys proved again we stick together.

“We looked back at round one and we thought it was a win we should have got and they pipped us at the last minute.

“Tonight we wanted to make a statement and I thought the boys played really well.”

Pendlebury believed patience played a big part in securing the win as both sides' defences dominated early on with just three goals apiece to half time.

Despite losing the forward-50 entry count, the Pies were more efficient in turning their opportunities into goals.
 
“Our ball movement was really patient and we didn’t just blaze away into the forward line.

“We waited for the right time to attack and we did that well and they were very good defensively as well.

“That made the game a bit stagnant at times because both sides were switched on defensively tonight and it was good to get a few goals over the top.”

Collingwood was able to replicate the pressure it had inflicted on the Lions the week before to good advantage again, closing Adelaide’s notorious run from half back.

With modern day football focusing more on tackling and intensity, Pendlebury said by implementing these facets, chances to break open the game would become more frequent.

“Pressure is everything. If you can press the opposition into making quick decisions and they’ve got to bang it on the boot and rush, then it gives someone a chance to intercept the ball or lay a tackle."