Magpie Blog: What is Collingwood’s most damaging forward line set-up?

With the return of Anthony Rocca, the Magpies forward line is in a transitional stage.  Collingwood now have several potent players to play in the forward 50.  The question is how do they do it?

Collingwood forward stocks
The Magpies boast a plethora of riches in its forward half with the return of Anthony Rocca.  It was clear in Saturday’s loss to Essendon the coaching staff tried to implement several different structures. 

Travis Cloke is now in his fifth season at the club and after two goals each in his first two matches, he has yet to make a major impact on the scoreboard.  The 2007 Copeland Trophy winner kicked 40 goals last season and is on the verge of breaking out this year.

2008 All-Australian Paul Medhurst showed how valuable he is to the club in his four-goal match-winning performance against Brisbane in round four.  He is finally finding his feet after an interrupted pre-season and will be a key to the Magpies success this season.

Medhurst is second behind John Anthony on the club’s goal kicking leader board.  The 21-year-old looked dangerous on Saturday when left alone in the goal-square.  Anthony kicked four-goals for the match, two when Cloke and Rocca were both on the bench.

New recruit Leigh Brown has made a presence in the Magpie forward line throughout the early part of the season.  The utility’s goal kicking accuracy lets him down at times but his ability to provide a strong target increases the Magpies forward threat.

He played 118 games for the Kangaroos (2003-08), experience which could prove vital on Friday night.

Lively forward Brad Dick,  who provides pace and defensive pressure inside the attacking 50, had a best on ground performance in the VFL on the weekend and could be recalled to play his third game of the season.

North Melbourne defensive stocks
The Kangaroos have a formidable defensive structure that combines youth with ball winning ability. 

Their back men have allowed the third lowest points total in the competition.

Daniel Pratt (89 games) and Josh Gibson (48 games) offer experience to the young playing group.

Pratt is backing up his strong 2008 season (All-Australian nomination) averaging 18 disposals and eight marks a game.  His ability to attack the game from the backline is an attribute prevalent in his teammates.

Scott McMahon (18 disposals per game) and Leigh Harding (20 disposals per game) force the opposition to play accountable football.

After 20-year-old Levi Greenwood made his debut last week the Roos will be forced to return to their youthful reserves this Friday after losing defender Lachlan Hansen to a hamstring strain.

Have your say!
Collingwood and North Melbourne head into the match on two wins apiece.

What do you think Collingwood’s best combination is up forward to deliver a match-winning performance against a youthful North Melbourne defence?

Have your say on this week’s blog!