- Jun 23, 2004
- 13,506
- 38
- AFL Club
- Adelaide
Collingwood Magpies: Midseason Review 2005:
At the midway point of such an even season in the AFL, the Collingwood Magpies, sitting on four victories and seven losses after twelve weeks, face an uphill battle to make the final eight – ruing the numerous close losses to begin the year. Had those losses been converted to victories, the AFL ladder may look quite different. Yet the Magpies must erase the losses from their memories, and look ahead to a much bigger and brighter second half of season 2005.
From the moment skipper Nathan Buckley slammed his fist into the lush MCG turf midway through the third quarter in the opening round match between Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs on Easter Monday, the cards just haven’t fallen the Magpies way. Buckley soon limped off into the rooms, not to be seen again until the split round – when he is set to return for Collingwood’s VFL affiliate Williamstown against the Box Hill Hawks – a match which is sure to attract a bumper crowd. After promising showings in both the Wizard Cup contests against Richmond and West Coast, Collingwood displayed a solid brand of football in a series of practices matches – causing plenty of scope for the season. Collingwood supports had been promised a mighty big season, with rave reviews coming from the training track at Edwin Flack Oval – all players fit and firing and raring to go to redeem themselves for their poor efforts of 2004. But alias, after leading the Bulldogs at three quarter time, Buckley witnessed a total capitulation from his side – the end margin blowing out to a dangerous 32 points, the doomsdays already creeping out of the woodwork. It was revealed later in the week that Buckley was to be out for an indefinite period of time, a large grey cloud hovering over his future in the game. The next week was even worse – the Pies putting on a pitiful display against the Adelaide Crows at Telstra Dome. Collingwood put on disgraceful first half showing – turning the ball over at will, causing supporters to hang their heads in shame and commentators turning whispers into quite rowdy yells on the future of coach Mick Malthouse. The second half saw Brisbane import Blake Caracella helping heave his new side into the contest and out of the mire – with four second half goals. With three minutes remaining on the time clock, and scores locked together – it appeared the Magpies were to participate in their first draw since 1995. But in such a dull, flat match, Crows superstar Andrew McLeod’s ever flashy skills rose to the fore – breaking a diving Tarkyn Lockyer tackle, and from 40 meters out on the boundary line – drilled home a brilliant, almost unbelievable goal with his left foot – the Crows holding on to a memorable one goal win. The following week the tide finally turned Collingwood’s way. The inaugural Rivalry Round enjoyed a huge build up – between the resurgent Carlton and the battling Collingwood. In an exciting, free-flowing and physical match, the Magpies overcame a 24 point deficit midway through the third term, running out four goal winners. Star forward Chris Tarrant, the butt of media scrutiny throughout the week – wearing a huge blast from respected journalist and former Carlton star Robert Walls – finally broke the drought. After a kickless first half, the 2003 All-Australian sprung to life with five second half goals, handing his side a memorable win. The monkey had finally been shaken from the Magpies back – or that is how it appeared, three weeks in.
One swallow doesn’t make a summer. And one win doesn’t set a season back on track. And so the Magpies found in round four, on the 20th anniversary of the first official Friday Night Football Match between the Pies and North Melbourne. The Roos had begun the season well, inning their opening three matches – and had announced during the week they were ready to take on the Pies on the big Friday Night stage. A large crowd followed, as the two opponents in the 1977 Grand Final met each other once more. A close encounter followed, both sides struggled to break the shackles. With minutes remaining, Roo defender Eddie Sainsbury picked up the ball 20 meters out and snapped a beauty on his left – giving his side the lead. Collingwood had one final chance at redemption. Tarrant marked, 45 meters out and on a 45 degree angle. A goal would have won back the lead – and the match. A point? Well, that was no good. The tension was at fever pitch as Tarrant skipped in. The kick was offline the moment it hit the boot, Collingwood’s season now in tatters at 1-3. Its centre half forward’s season was also hanging by a thread. Anthony Rocca, in his third match as stand-in skipper had booted three big goals in the first term – to set his side alight. But at the start of the second quarter, Rocca hopped into the air, later describing the feeling as if someone had kicked him in the lower leg. It was revealed that his season was over, with a torn Achilles. Was there anyway back for the Magpies? Would they lift for the traditional Anzac Day blockbuster against bitter rival Essendon? It remained to be seen.
Essendon had all of the play early, but were unable to convert it on the scoreboard – kicking a woeful two goals nine behinds. Bad kicking is bad football, was the message sent out by Bombers coach Kevin Sheedy, in his 25th year as coach. Stand-in skipper James Clement, the side’s third skipper for the year, attempted to lift the side with a long goal from outside the fifty. But it mattered not, as senior players continued to fritter away chances in front of goal. One bright patch was the performance from first gamer Travis Cloke – the youngest of former Richmond and Collingwood star David’s three boys – who gathered 16 possessions and booted a goal – in a pleasing display. Collingwood showed pluck, in fighting back hard to hold Essendon to a five point lead at the major break. But, as always in the AFL, controversy broke out – as the umpire awarded Bombers skipper and Magpie nemesis James Hird a second opportunity to kick for goal (having claimed he had not blown his whistle to signal time on – which in replays was later proved the correct decision). Now most players you normally don’t give a second chance to kick for goal. But with James Hird? That is a recipe for disaster. And so it proved. Hird slotted through the goal from the impossible angle, extending the Bombers lead to two goals – a lead the Magpies, try as they might, were unable to make up. Malthouse gave his charges a very fierce spray at the three quarter time huddle, sitting his players down as if they were young schoolboys – pleading for them to play fast and direct footy. But it was to no avail, as his men went down fighting by 19 points. Original Bomber sensation Andrew Lovett in only his third match won the Anzac Day Medal for best afield.
Malthouse had promised to swing the axe prior to the round six clash with St.Kilda, and was true to his word – sliding 2000 Brownlow Medallist Shane Woewodin back to the VFL for the first time in his 190 game career. Malthouse also rewarded the former Calder Cannon TAC Star Adam Iacobucci for his excellent form at Williamstown with senior selection. The Pies started well, but without the guidance of Buckley and Rocca, lacked the class to hold on – the silky-skilled young Saints overrunning them by 38 points.
Then came the debacle. Dubbed the Mothers Day Massacre, Collingwood were trounced by the Fremantle Dockers by a whopping 112 points. No resistance came from the Black and White, allowing their Docker opponents room to destroy their side. Malthouse was savage after the match, blasting senior players Scott Burns and Chad Morrison – and warning that there would be plenty of carnage in the coming weeks.
The Pies then met the in-form Richmond at the MCG. The Maggies led for the opening three quarters, before the class of Tiger forward Nathan Brown eventually prevailed. Beaten all ends up for three quarters by Clement, Brown snapped loose in the last quarter – with a brilliant five goal last quarter haul to lead his side to an emphatic 35 point victory. Where to now? Magpie supporters asked themselves. Little did they know that a win was just a week away.
On the afternoon that Carlton farewelled Optus Oval for the last time, across town at the MCG, Collingwood did the unthinkable – defeat ladder leader West Coast (a team that had not lost at all that season) by four goals. It was the first occasion that bottom had defeated top since round three of 1997 – back when St.Kilda knocked off the Magpies at Waverley Park. The Eagles began like a house on fire with three early goals before Collingwood pegged them back. Slowly but surely, the Pies worked their way into the lead – through the good work of Caracella, Licuria and Burns. But in the shadow of the three quarter time break, the Coasters broke away through Matera to an eight point lead – one which several pundits believed was enough for them to hold on. But Collingwood were not to be denied their second win of the year. Aided by a poor bounce from umpire Mark Fraser (himself a former Magpie and Bomber) second gamer Chris Egan gleefully found the ball drift into his lap as he strolled in for an easy goal – which had his team back in the contest. Goals to Didak and Caracella quickly followed, the Pies running out four goal winners in one of the most amazing matches in many a year – perfectly showing all the evenness of the AFL competition in season 2005.
Two weeks after the win over the Eagles, Collingwood then found themselves on a winning streak of sorts – defeating the battling Hawthorn and workmanlike Geelong in successive weeks – signalling perhaps a return to form. The win over the Hawks was nothing special. Merely a solid victory in a game which never hit any great heights – save for the brilliant scissor kick goal off the boot of Chris Tarrant. The win over the Cats, however, was one which will be remembered for many a year. The Pies roared out of the blocks, slamming on four goals before the Cats were able to score. The Magpies kept clear all night, and aided by the youth of Travis Cloke and Sean Rusling, were able to record a handy five goal win.
The annual Queens Birthday Monday blockbuster against Melbourne followed 10 days later, in front of more then 65,000 at the MCG. A tight contest up until three quarter time, the Demons ran away with the match – walking off 45 points ahead. It was three goals to brilliant Demon Adam Yze late in the third quarter which stole the show, Collingwood unable to recover.
After a slow start, marred by injuries to stars in Buckley and Rocca – the Magpies were never able to hit their straps until their youth came of age in round eight, with three wins quickly following. Now 4-7 at the break, Collingwood’s season will be on the line in the coming weeks – with difficult matches ahead against Sydney, Port Adelaide and the might of arch enemy Brisbane at the Gabba. Finals are unlikely at this stage, but one thing if for sure – the Magpies of 2005 won’t go down without a fight.
Surprise packets:
The 2004 Draftees: T.Cloke, Rusling, Egan, Davies and Iacobucci have all proven themselves as players of the future over their first six months of AFL football – showing class and grit beyond their years.
Blake Caracella: A duel premiership player is always a handy pick up – by 27 goals in 12 weeks was more then Collingwood bargained for when they drafted Caracella at pick 2 in the pre-season draft.
Rhyce Shaw: Perhaps the most maligned player in the AFL at the beginning of the season, Shaw has shut his critics in emphatic fashion. A knee injury in round 12 has ended his season, one which he will remember as his best at AFL level to date.
Disappointments:
Richard Cole, David King, Shane Woewodin, Ryan Lonie, Tristan Walker: Where have they been when the side has needed them? All haven’t kicked on, although King has been hard-done by.
Tom Davidson/Guy Richards/Zane Leonard: the trio have again suffered deliberating injuries – and must be wondering if they will ever get another run at senior level!
Crossroads:
Woewodin, Davis, Lonie, J.Cloke, Cole. All under pressure to stay on the list at the seasons end.
Player Review:
Leon Davis: 2/10 – A bright start was followed by a broken wrist – an injury which has seen him sidelined until round nine. Since then, Davis has struggled to find a place in the side, and must be wondering where his career is heading. Must make inroads after the break, with a shift to the midfield taking the priority. Grade: E.
Shane Woewodin: 3.5/10 – Definitely Woewodin’s worst season in the AFL. The game appears to have caught up with the durable Brownlow Medallist, the wingman caught out for pace on several occasions. Suffered the ultimate humiliation when dropped to the VFL for the first time in his career in round six, and is again facing the axe. Grade: D
Alan Didak: 6/10 – The third pick in the 2000 National Draft has come of age this year, starring after his return from a pre-season knee injury. Has finally graduated to the midfield ranks, and is one of the most damaging forwards in the business. Grade: C+
Nathan Buckley: 2/10 – How do you judge a player who has played half a game and torn a hamstring? Difficult – even harder when the player injured is one of the best players the game has ever seen. Fortunately, Buckley returned on the bye weekend for Williamstown against the Box Hill Hawks, gathering 23 possessions. His return is expected in the coming fortnight. Grade: E
Brodie Holland: 6.5/10 – The onetime Docker forward pocket has enjoyed a solid season – not missing a game, and playing consistent football as a tagger/ball winner. One of the more underrated footballers going around. Grade: C+/B
Chad Morrison: 6/10 – The ex-Eagle has enjoyed a successful move back home to Melbourne to play for the side he supported as a child. In the early stages of the season, Morrison starred across halfback, gathering possessions at will. However, in recent weeks, the numbers have dried up for Morrison, whose lack of pace is beginning to show out. Grade: C+
James Clement: 9/10 – The consummate professional has again taken his game to another level, leading brilliantly as stand-in skipper, and guiding the defence with aplomb. Has blanketed the best of forwards, stars such as Hird, Welsh, Whitnall, Brown, Yze and Williams have all felt his wrath. A genuine superstar. Grade: A
Julian Rowe: 4/10 – A solid start to his second year of AFL football. Has begun to win his own ball, and is now using it well. Has pace and moves classically – in the fashion of a Nick Dal Santo. His goal in the first term against Melbourne on the boundary underlines his class and potential brilliance. One to be persisted with. Grade: D+
Blake Caracella: 7/10 – One of the best pickups of 2005. Although he was a given at pick two in the Pre-Season Draft, he has certainly exceeded all expectations with 27 goals in 12 weeks. Five goal hauls in successive week’s midseason were highlights, as have been his class and the leadership he brings to the table. One of the most improved in the AFL. Grade: B
Shane O’Bree: 5/10 – It has been hard to assess O’Bree’s season – his past three seasons, infact. A quiet beginning to the year has been partially erased by a purple patch in the past four weeks, playing a vital role in his team’s resurgence. Not over endowed with skill or pace, O’Bree has used his key tool well – ball-winning ability. Often goes unsighted around the ground, and is on his way to reclaiming his status as a talented in-and-under midfielder. Grade: C
Tristan Walker: 3.5/10 – Very hard to assess the season of Walker. A solid pre-season and Wizard Cup campaign was followed by a quiet start to the year, where he spent much of his time as a full forward. Was then dropped to the reserves in round eight and has not been sighted since. Recently signed to a two-year deal. Grade: D
Richard Cole: 3.5/10 – After such a promising year in 2004, Cole has taken a step backward in the first half of 2005, struggling to win the footy as well as hold his opponent. Was subsequently demoted to the reserves and has not set the world on fire since. Grade: D
Shane Wakelin: 8/10 – A star in defence this year, and perhaps his best ever since his debut for the Saints back in 1994. Good skills and a reliable close tag, Wakelin is one of the best defenders in the competition. Grade: B+
Chris Egan: 4/10 – The nephew of former Richmond utility Phil Egan, Chris has enjoyed an explosive start to his AFL career. Fined $900 for a gesture to the crowd, as well as several individual highlights, Egan could be one of the AFL’s brightest stars as his career wears on. Grade: D
Tom Davidson: 1/10 – The injuries continue to pile on for the desperately unlucky Davidson – this time a torn Achilles tendon hampering his start. Has looked the goods upon return at Williamstown. Grade: F
Scott Burns: 7/10 – The old reliable has continued to show that his career is not done with yet – starring all through a trying season – teaching his younger pupils the art of courage. His trademark guts have been on display, and he is showing no signs of slowing down. Grade: B
Paul Licuria: 7.5/10 – The gutsy duel Copeland Trophy winner has continued to chug away this season leading his team for both marks and disposals at the halfway mark. Arguably the fittest player in the AFL, Licuria has allegedly been hampered by an illness from rounds 5-10, but is now said to be back to 100%.
Chris Tarrant: 7/10 – A brave effort from Tarrant, who, in the absence of Rocca, has been set the task of having to beat two opposition defenders in his quest to win the ball. Has done a solid job, booting 27 goals to share the lead of the club goal kicking table with Caracella, and has also held one or two brilliant marks – ones which are sure to feature regularly on the highlight reel. His set-shot kicking for goal, however, has caused concerns. Grade: B
Guy Richards: 1/10 – Similar story to Tom Davidson – when is this potential star ever going to get on the ground? Riddled by knee and hip injuries, Richards has not played at league level this season. Is expected to return in the next month. With Fraser forms a potential brilliant ruck combination. Grade F
Rhyce Shaw: 8/10 – The eldest son of Ray Shaw has finally proven to his many critics that he can perform consistently at senior level. Using his pace, Shaw has been a great source of drive from defence, while his at times questionable foot skills have improved out of sight. Sadly for Rhyce, the man thought to be leading the Copeland Trophy at this stage of the season injured his knee in an incident on the Great Southern Stand wing in the second quarter of the Magpies clash with the Demons, and is expected to miss the rest of the year. Grade: B+
Anthony Rocca: 3/10 – Luck has evaded Collingwood all season, never more evident when centre half forward Anthony Rocca went down with a season ending Achilles injury in round four against North Melbourne, just after he had begun to kick into gear. Now donning a moon boot, it is unlikely that Rocca will be sighted this year unless his team makes a late charge to the finals. Grade: D
Tarkyn Lockyer: 6/10 – The little battler has enjoyed a solid if not spectacular season out of the back pocket, where he has quelled the likes of Paul Chapman, Phil Matera and Aaron Davey. Is almost back to his best form of 2001, and is still a vital part of the Magpie plan. Grade: C+
Josh Fraser: 3/10 – After stacking on the weight over the pre-season, Fraser lost eight kilograms after an injured knee contracted golden staff prior to round one – only reappearing in round six against St.Kilda – and since then has been unable to fully restart his career. Is now as skinny as a rake as a result of his illness, and needs to fight back soon. Grade: D
Ben Johnson: 6/10 – Another solid, workmanlike season from Ben Johnson, who has again provided great drive from the back half. A torn quad has hampered him in recent weeks, but the consistent back pocket will be ready for a return against the Swans. Grade: C+
Nick Maxwell: 5.5/10 – Following on from a promising debut season last year, Maxwell has again steeped up in 2005, quelling the influence of many of the games biggest names, as well as using pace and a good football brain to get him out of sticky situations. A leader of the future. Grade: C
Sean Rusling: 4/10 – The young man from Westminster College in South Australia has justified his lofty rating in the 2004 National Draft (pick 23), showing a truckload of potential in his three senior outings, showing off his already trademark pace and solid hands. Had starred in the VFL in the opening rounds of the season, and is certainly one to watch. Grade: D+
Matthew Lokan: 1/10 – Aside from the opening Wizard Cup contest against Richmond, Lokan has not featured in any AFL matches this year, and his career is now on thin ice. Although he has been listed as an emergency in recent weeks, the former Port Adelaide Magpie’s future is in grave doubt. Grade: F
David King: 2/10 – Has been desperately unlucky to have not cracked the seniors at this stage of the season, especially after such an exciting finish to 2004. A star on the training track early, King must now be wondering what his future holds. Grade: E
Billy Morrison: 1/10 – Has barely got a gig in the Williamstown seniors, and the career of a first round draftee of 2003 now looks to be on thin-ice. Although he has booted a number of bags in the VFL reserves, he must be wondering where he goes from here.
Travis Cloke: 6.5/10 – The sensation of 2005 – not just Collingwood but the AFL. So much media has been focussed on the youngest of David’s three boys, having displayed amazing skills, hands, pace and athleticism for a boy still at high school. Leading the team from the front at centre half forward in Rocca’s absence, the man affectionately dubbed by both team-mates and fans alike as ‘C3’ is a man with a huge future. 16 possessions and a goal on debut underline his star qualities. Grade: B
Cameron Cloke: 4.5/10 – Now in his third season of AFL, Cloke has battled manfully in the ruck duels this year, in the absence of frontlines Fraser and Richards. Is more suited as a forward, but now needs to focus on second and third efforts. Lack of pace is a worry. Grade: D+
Jason Cloke: 3/10 – The future of the eldest Cloke has struck a snag, with the sensation of 2002 now stagnating in the VFL. Having waited until round six for an opportunity, Cloke was then dispensed of, not been sighted since round eight. Must be wondering where his future lies. Lack of pace is concern, as is his lack of accountability in defence – although this is an area he has improved in. No one can ever question his heart and desperation. Grade: D
Simon Prestigiacomo: 7/10 – The man affectionately known by all as Presti has enjoyed an outstanding year at fullback, quelling names such as Lloyd, Rawlings, Richardson, Hanson, Kingsley, Neitz and Thompson en route to his 150th game a fortnight ago. Inline for All-Australian honours. Grade: B
Dane Swan: 6/10 – A revelation in recent weeks, it appeared that Swan’s career was over just six weeks ago. After a promotion against Richmond in round eight, Swan has not looked back, tagging well in the back pocket, and relishing runs through the centre. Could be a vital cog in Collingwood’s backline for the next couple of seasons. Has put aside off-field troubles to become a valuable member of the 22. Grade: C+
Brayden Shaw: 2/10 – After 18 months on the list the nuggetty son of Tony Shaw is still yet to find a place in the senior side. Has performed well for Williamstown. Grade: E
Adam Iacobucci: 3.5/10 – Much to like about the young man from Calder’s brand of football. Hard at the player and the ball, Iacobucci has been touted as a future replacement for Paul Licuria, as a hard working in-and-under midfielder. Super fit with good skills, Iacobucci was unlucky to be dropped after his second game (the Fremantle capitulation) – a match where he showed he has what it takes. Grade: D
Heath Shaw: 1.5/10 – Although it was reported he was to debut on Anzac Day, Shaw has struggled to make a name for himself at Williamstown, and may be facing an uncertain future. Sure to get a run soon. Grade: E
Brent Hall: 1/10 – Is yet to cement his name in the Seagulls senior line up, and is still coming to terms with AFL football. The second round draft choice of 2003 would like to get a wriggle on, to ensure he is able to retain his spot on the list. Grade: F
Rookie List:
Ben Davies: 4/10 – A bright prospect selected at pick four in the 2004 Rookie Draft, the former Western Jet was named as his side’s best in the heavy defeat at the hands of the Dockers – where he wracked up over 15 touches. Was slipped back into the VFL a few weeks later, where he has worked hard to keep his name in the selection lights. A player with a big future ahead. Grade: D+
Hertier O’Brien: 3/10 – The West Australian of Brazilian heritage has looked solid across halfback for the Williamstown seniors in recent weeks, and after the injury to Shaw must surely be looking at a spot on the senior list. Grade: D
Zane Leonard: 1/10 – The poor bloke just cannot take a trick at the moment. Knee and facial injuries marring his season – his second in AFL ranks. Has shown promise in his limited opportunities. Grade: F
David Fanning: 3.5/10 – Had his name thrust into the lights when he made his debut in round one in the ruck up against Luke Darcy. Was then sent back to the VFL, where he showed some good form, working his way back to senior ranks against The Eagles and Hawks, where he showed promising signs against the AFL’s two hottest ruckmen – Dean Cox and Peter Everett.
Rating System:
10: A+
9: A
8: B+
7: B
6: C+
5: C
4: D+
3: D
2: E
1: F
At the midway point of such an even season in the AFL, the Collingwood Magpies, sitting on four victories and seven losses after twelve weeks, face an uphill battle to make the final eight – ruing the numerous close losses to begin the year. Had those losses been converted to victories, the AFL ladder may look quite different. Yet the Magpies must erase the losses from their memories, and look ahead to a much bigger and brighter second half of season 2005.
From the moment skipper Nathan Buckley slammed his fist into the lush MCG turf midway through the third quarter in the opening round match between Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs on Easter Monday, the cards just haven’t fallen the Magpies way. Buckley soon limped off into the rooms, not to be seen again until the split round – when he is set to return for Collingwood’s VFL affiliate Williamstown against the Box Hill Hawks – a match which is sure to attract a bumper crowd. After promising showings in both the Wizard Cup contests against Richmond and West Coast, Collingwood displayed a solid brand of football in a series of practices matches – causing plenty of scope for the season. Collingwood supports had been promised a mighty big season, with rave reviews coming from the training track at Edwin Flack Oval – all players fit and firing and raring to go to redeem themselves for their poor efforts of 2004. But alias, after leading the Bulldogs at three quarter time, Buckley witnessed a total capitulation from his side – the end margin blowing out to a dangerous 32 points, the doomsdays already creeping out of the woodwork. It was revealed later in the week that Buckley was to be out for an indefinite period of time, a large grey cloud hovering over his future in the game. The next week was even worse – the Pies putting on a pitiful display against the Adelaide Crows at Telstra Dome. Collingwood put on disgraceful first half showing – turning the ball over at will, causing supporters to hang their heads in shame and commentators turning whispers into quite rowdy yells on the future of coach Mick Malthouse. The second half saw Brisbane import Blake Caracella helping heave his new side into the contest and out of the mire – with four second half goals. With three minutes remaining on the time clock, and scores locked together – it appeared the Magpies were to participate in their first draw since 1995. But in such a dull, flat match, Crows superstar Andrew McLeod’s ever flashy skills rose to the fore – breaking a diving Tarkyn Lockyer tackle, and from 40 meters out on the boundary line – drilled home a brilliant, almost unbelievable goal with his left foot – the Crows holding on to a memorable one goal win. The following week the tide finally turned Collingwood’s way. The inaugural Rivalry Round enjoyed a huge build up – between the resurgent Carlton and the battling Collingwood. In an exciting, free-flowing and physical match, the Magpies overcame a 24 point deficit midway through the third term, running out four goal winners. Star forward Chris Tarrant, the butt of media scrutiny throughout the week – wearing a huge blast from respected journalist and former Carlton star Robert Walls – finally broke the drought. After a kickless first half, the 2003 All-Australian sprung to life with five second half goals, handing his side a memorable win. The monkey had finally been shaken from the Magpies back – or that is how it appeared, three weeks in.
One swallow doesn’t make a summer. And one win doesn’t set a season back on track. And so the Magpies found in round four, on the 20th anniversary of the first official Friday Night Football Match between the Pies and North Melbourne. The Roos had begun the season well, inning their opening three matches – and had announced during the week they were ready to take on the Pies on the big Friday Night stage. A large crowd followed, as the two opponents in the 1977 Grand Final met each other once more. A close encounter followed, both sides struggled to break the shackles. With minutes remaining, Roo defender Eddie Sainsbury picked up the ball 20 meters out and snapped a beauty on his left – giving his side the lead. Collingwood had one final chance at redemption. Tarrant marked, 45 meters out and on a 45 degree angle. A goal would have won back the lead – and the match. A point? Well, that was no good. The tension was at fever pitch as Tarrant skipped in. The kick was offline the moment it hit the boot, Collingwood’s season now in tatters at 1-3. Its centre half forward’s season was also hanging by a thread. Anthony Rocca, in his third match as stand-in skipper had booted three big goals in the first term – to set his side alight. But at the start of the second quarter, Rocca hopped into the air, later describing the feeling as if someone had kicked him in the lower leg. It was revealed that his season was over, with a torn Achilles. Was there anyway back for the Magpies? Would they lift for the traditional Anzac Day blockbuster against bitter rival Essendon? It remained to be seen.
Essendon had all of the play early, but were unable to convert it on the scoreboard – kicking a woeful two goals nine behinds. Bad kicking is bad football, was the message sent out by Bombers coach Kevin Sheedy, in his 25th year as coach. Stand-in skipper James Clement, the side’s third skipper for the year, attempted to lift the side with a long goal from outside the fifty. But it mattered not, as senior players continued to fritter away chances in front of goal. One bright patch was the performance from first gamer Travis Cloke – the youngest of former Richmond and Collingwood star David’s three boys – who gathered 16 possessions and booted a goal – in a pleasing display. Collingwood showed pluck, in fighting back hard to hold Essendon to a five point lead at the major break. But, as always in the AFL, controversy broke out – as the umpire awarded Bombers skipper and Magpie nemesis James Hird a second opportunity to kick for goal (having claimed he had not blown his whistle to signal time on – which in replays was later proved the correct decision). Now most players you normally don’t give a second chance to kick for goal. But with James Hird? That is a recipe for disaster. And so it proved. Hird slotted through the goal from the impossible angle, extending the Bombers lead to two goals – a lead the Magpies, try as they might, were unable to make up. Malthouse gave his charges a very fierce spray at the three quarter time huddle, sitting his players down as if they were young schoolboys – pleading for them to play fast and direct footy. But it was to no avail, as his men went down fighting by 19 points. Original Bomber sensation Andrew Lovett in only his third match won the Anzac Day Medal for best afield.
Malthouse had promised to swing the axe prior to the round six clash with St.Kilda, and was true to his word – sliding 2000 Brownlow Medallist Shane Woewodin back to the VFL for the first time in his 190 game career. Malthouse also rewarded the former Calder Cannon TAC Star Adam Iacobucci for his excellent form at Williamstown with senior selection. The Pies started well, but without the guidance of Buckley and Rocca, lacked the class to hold on – the silky-skilled young Saints overrunning them by 38 points.
Then came the debacle. Dubbed the Mothers Day Massacre, Collingwood were trounced by the Fremantle Dockers by a whopping 112 points. No resistance came from the Black and White, allowing their Docker opponents room to destroy their side. Malthouse was savage after the match, blasting senior players Scott Burns and Chad Morrison – and warning that there would be plenty of carnage in the coming weeks.
The Pies then met the in-form Richmond at the MCG. The Maggies led for the opening three quarters, before the class of Tiger forward Nathan Brown eventually prevailed. Beaten all ends up for three quarters by Clement, Brown snapped loose in the last quarter – with a brilliant five goal last quarter haul to lead his side to an emphatic 35 point victory. Where to now? Magpie supporters asked themselves. Little did they know that a win was just a week away.
On the afternoon that Carlton farewelled Optus Oval for the last time, across town at the MCG, Collingwood did the unthinkable – defeat ladder leader West Coast (a team that had not lost at all that season) by four goals. It was the first occasion that bottom had defeated top since round three of 1997 – back when St.Kilda knocked off the Magpies at Waverley Park. The Eagles began like a house on fire with three early goals before Collingwood pegged them back. Slowly but surely, the Pies worked their way into the lead – through the good work of Caracella, Licuria and Burns. But in the shadow of the three quarter time break, the Coasters broke away through Matera to an eight point lead – one which several pundits believed was enough for them to hold on. But Collingwood were not to be denied their second win of the year. Aided by a poor bounce from umpire Mark Fraser (himself a former Magpie and Bomber) second gamer Chris Egan gleefully found the ball drift into his lap as he strolled in for an easy goal – which had his team back in the contest. Goals to Didak and Caracella quickly followed, the Pies running out four goal winners in one of the most amazing matches in many a year – perfectly showing all the evenness of the AFL competition in season 2005.
Two weeks after the win over the Eagles, Collingwood then found themselves on a winning streak of sorts – defeating the battling Hawthorn and workmanlike Geelong in successive weeks – signalling perhaps a return to form. The win over the Hawks was nothing special. Merely a solid victory in a game which never hit any great heights – save for the brilliant scissor kick goal off the boot of Chris Tarrant. The win over the Cats, however, was one which will be remembered for many a year. The Pies roared out of the blocks, slamming on four goals before the Cats were able to score. The Magpies kept clear all night, and aided by the youth of Travis Cloke and Sean Rusling, were able to record a handy five goal win.
The annual Queens Birthday Monday blockbuster against Melbourne followed 10 days later, in front of more then 65,000 at the MCG. A tight contest up until three quarter time, the Demons ran away with the match – walking off 45 points ahead. It was three goals to brilliant Demon Adam Yze late in the third quarter which stole the show, Collingwood unable to recover.
After a slow start, marred by injuries to stars in Buckley and Rocca – the Magpies were never able to hit their straps until their youth came of age in round eight, with three wins quickly following. Now 4-7 at the break, Collingwood’s season will be on the line in the coming weeks – with difficult matches ahead against Sydney, Port Adelaide and the might of arch enemy Brisbane at the Gabba. Finals are unlikely at this stage, but one thing if for sure – the Magpies of 2005 won’t go down without a fight.
Surprise packets:
The 2004 Draftees: T.Cloke, Rusling, Egan, Davies and Iacobucci have all proven themselves as players of the future over their first six months of AFL football – showing class and grit beyond their years.
Blake Caracella: A duel premiership player is always a handy pick up – by 27 goals in 12 weeks was more then Collingwood bargained for when they drafted Caracella at pick 2 in the pre-season draft.
Rhyce Shaw: Perhaps the most maligned player in the AFL at the beginning of the season, Shaw has shut his critics in emphatic fashion. A knee injury in round 12 has ended his season, one which he will remember as his best at AFL level to date.
Disappointments:
Richard Cole, David King, Shane Woewodin, Ryan Lonie, Tristan Walker: Where have they been when the side has needed them? All haven’t kicked on, although King has been hard-done by.
Tom Davidson/Guy Richards/Zane Leonard: the trio have again suffered deliberating injuries – and must be wondering if they will ever get another run at senior level!
Crossroads:
Woewodin, Davis, Lonie, J.Cloke, Cole. All under pressure to stay on the list at the seasons end.
Player Review:
Leon Davis: 2/10 – A bright start was followed by a broken wrist – an injury which has seen him sidelined until round nine. Since then, Davis has struggled to find a place in the side, and must be wondering where his career is heading. Must make inroads after the break, with a shift to the midfield taking the priority. Grade: E.
Shane Woewodin: 3.5/10 – Definitely Woewodin’s worst season in the AFL. The game appears to have caught up with the durable Brownlow Medallist, the wingman caught out for pace on several occasions. Suffered the ultimate humiliation when dropped to the VFL for the first time in his career in round six, and is again facing the axe. Grade: D
Alan Didak: 6/10 – The third pick in the 2000 National Draft has come of age this year, starring after his return from a pre-season knee injury. Has finally graduated to the midfield ranks, and is one of the most damaging forwards in the business. Grade: C+
Nathan Buckley: 2/10 – How do you judge a player who has played half a game and torn a hamstring? Difficult – even harder when the player injured is one of the best players the game has ever seen. Fortunately, Buckley returned on the bye weekend for Williamstown against the Box Hill Hawks, gathering 23 possessions. His return is expected in the coming fortnight. Grade: E
Brodie Holland: 6.5/10 – The onetime Docker forward pocket has enjoyed a solid season – not missing a game, and playing consistent football as a tagger/ball winner. One of the more underrated footballers going around. Grade: C+/B
Chad Morrison: 6/10 – The ex-Eagle has enjoyed a successful move back home to Melbourne to play for the side he supported as a child. In the early stages of the season, Morrison starred across halfback, gathering possessions at will. However, in recent weeks, the numbers have dried up for Morrison, whose lack of pace is beginning to show out. Grade: C+
James Clement: 9/10 – The consummate professional has again taken his game to another level, leading brilliantly as stand-in skipper, and guiding the defence with aplomb. Has blanketed the best of forwards, stars such as Hird, Welsh, Whitnall, Brown, Yze and Williams have all felt his wrath. A genuine superstar. Grade: A
Julian Rowe: 4/10 – A solid start to his second year of AFL football. Has begun to win his own ball, and is now using it well. Has pace and moves classically – in the fashion of a Nick Dal Santo. His goal in the first term against Melbourne on the boundary underlines his class and potential brilliance. One to be persisted with. Grade: D+
Blake Caracella: 7/10 – One of the best pickups of 2005. Although he was a given at pick two in the Pre-Season Draft, he has certainly exceeded all expectations with 27 goals in 12 weeks. Five goal hauls in successive week’s midseason were highlights, as have been his class and the leadership he brings to the table. One of the most improved in the AFL. Grade: B
Shane O’Bree: 5/10 – It has been hard to assess O’Bree’s season – his past three seasons, infact. A quiet beginning to the year has been partially erased by a purple patch in the past four weeks, playing a vital role in his team’s resurgence. Not over endowed with skill or pace, O’Bree has used his key tool well – ball-winning ability. Often goes unsighted around the ground, and is on his way to reclaiming his status as a talented in-and-under midfielder. Grade: C
Tristan Walker: 3.5/10 – Very hard to assess the season of Walker. A solid pre-season and Wizard Cup campaign was followed by a quiet start to the year, where he spent much of his time as a full forward. Was then dropped to the reserves in round eight and has not been sighted since. Recently signed to a two-year deal. Grade: D
Richard Cole: 3.5/10 – After such a promising year in 2004, Cole has taken a step backward in the first half of 2005, struggling to win the footy as well as hold his opponent. Was subsequently demoted to the reserves and has not set the world on fire since. Grade: D
Shane Wakelin: 8/10 – A star in defence this year, and perhaps his best ever since his debut for the Saints back in 1994. Good skills and a reliable close tag, Wakelin is one of the best defenders in the competition. Grade: B+
Chris Egan: 4/10 – The nephew of former Richmond utility Phil Egan, Chris has enjoyed an explosive start to his AFL career. Fined $900 for a gesture to the crowd, as well as several individual highlights, Egan could be one of the AFL’s brightest stars as his career wears on. Grade: D
Tom Davidson: 1/10 – The injuries continue to pile on for the desperately unlucky Davidson – this time a torn Achilles tendon hampering his start. Has looked the goods upon return at Williamstown. Grade: F
Scott Burns: 7/10 – The old reliable has continued to show that his career is not done with yet – starring all through a trying season – teaching his younger pupils the art of courage. His trademark guts have been on display, and he is showing no signs of slowing down. Grade: B
Paul Licuria: 7.5/10 – The gutsy duel Copeland Trophy winner has continued to chug away this season leading his team for both marks and disposals at the halfway mark. Arguably the fittest player in the AFL, Licuria has allegedly been hampered by an illness from rounds 5-10, but is now said to be back to 100%.
Chris Tarrant: 7/10 – A brave effort from Tarrant, who, in the absence of Rocca, has been set the task of having to beat two opposition defenders in his quest to win the ball. Has done a solid job, booting 27 goals to share the lead of the club goal kicking table with Caracella, and has also held one or two brilliant marks – ones which are sure to feature regularly on the highlight reel. His set-shot kicking for goal, however, has caused concerns. Grade: B
Guy Richards: 1/10 – Similar story to Tom Davidson – when is this potential star ever going to get on the ground? Riddled by knee and hip injuries, Richards has not played at league level this season. Is expected to return in the next month. With Fraser forms a potential brilliant ruck combination. Grade F
Rhyce Shaw: 8/10 – The eldest son of Ray Shaw has finally proven to his many critics that he can perform consistently at senior level. Using his pace, Shaw has been a great source of drive from defence, while his at times questionable foot skills have improved out of sight. Sadly for Rhyce, the man thought to be leading the Copeland Trophy at this stage of the season injured his knee in an incident on the Great Southern Stand wing in the second quarter of the Magpies clash with the Demons, and is expected to miss the rest of the year. Grade: B+
Anthony Rocca: 3/10 – Luck has evaded Collingwood all season, never more evident when centre half forward Anthony Rocca went down with a season ending Achilles injury in round four against North Melbourne, just after he had begun to kick into gear. Now donning a moon boot, it is unlikely that Rocca will be sighted this year unless his team makes a late charge to the finals. Grade: D
Tarkyn Lockyer: 6/10 – The little battler has enjoyed a solid if not spectacular season out of the back pocket, where he has quelled the likes of Paul Chapman, Phil Matera and Aaron Davey. Is almost back to his best form of 2001, and is still a vital part of the Magpie plan. Grade: C+
Josh Fraser: 3/10 – After stacking on the weight over the pre-season, Fraser lost eight kilograms after an injured knee contracted golden staff prior to round one – only reappearing in round six against St.Kilda – and since then has been unable to fully restart his career. Is now as skinny as a rake as a result of his illness, and needs to fight back soon. Grade: D
Ben Johnson: 6/10 – Another solid, workmanlike season from Ben Johnson, who has again provided great drive from the back half. A torn quad has hampered him in recent weeks, but the consistent back pocket will be ready for a return against the Swans. Grade: C+
Nick Maxwell: 5.5/10 – Following on from a promising debut season last year, Maxwell has again steeped up in 2005, quelling the influence of many of the games biggest names, as well as using pace and a good football brain to get him out of sticky situations. A leader of the future. Grade: C
Sean Rusling: 4/10 – The young man from Westminster College in South Australia has justified his lofty rating in the 2004 National Draft (pick 23), showing a truckload of potential in his three senior outings, showing off his already trademark pace and solid hands. Had starred in the VFL in the opening rounds of the season, and is certainly one to watch. Grade: D+
Matthew Lokan: 1/10 – Aside from the opening Wizard Cup contest against Richmond, Lokan has not featured in any AFL matches this year, and his career is now on thin ice. Although he has been listed as an emergency in recent weeks, the former Port Adelaide Magpie’s future is in grave doubt. Grade: F
David King: 2/10 – Has been desperately unlucky to have not cracked the seniors at this stage of the season, especially after such an exciting finish to 2004. A star on the training track early, King must now be wondering what his future holds. Grade: E
Billy Morrison: 1/10 – Has barely got a gig in the Williamstown seniors, and the career of a first round draftee of 2003 now looks to be on thin-ice. Although he has booted a number of bags in the VFL reserves, he must be wondering where he goes from here.
Travis Cloke: 6.5/10 – The sensation of 2005 – not just Collingwood but the AFL. So much media has been focussed on the youngest of David’s three boys, having displayed amazing skills, hands, pace and athleticism for a boy still at high school. Leading the team from the front at centre half forward in Rocca’s absence, the man affectionately dubbed by both team-mates and fans alike as ‘C3’ is a man with a huge future. 16 possessions and a goal on debut underline his star qualities. Grade: B
Cameron Cloke: 4.5/10 – Now in his third season of AFL, Cloke has battled manfully in the ruck duels this year, in the absence of frontlines Fraser and Richards. Is more suited as a forward, but now needs to focus on second and third efforts. Lack of pace is a worry. Grade: D+
Jason Cloke: 3/10 – The future of the eldest Cloke has struck a snag, with the sensation of 2002 now stagnating in the VFL. Having waited until round six for an opportunity, Cloke was then dispensed of, not been sighted since round eight. Must be wondering where his future lies. Lack of pace is concern, as is his lack of accountability in defence – although this is an area he has improved in. No one can ever question his heart and desperation. Grade: D
Simon Prestigiacomo: 7/10 – The man affectionately known by all as Presti has enjoyed an outstanding year at fullback, quelling names such as Lloyd, Rawlings, Richardson, Hanson, Kingsley, Neitz and Thompson en route to his 150th game a fortnight ago. Inline for All-Australian honours. Grade: B
Dane Swan: 6/10 – A revelation in recent weeks, it appeared that Swan’s career was over just six weeks ago. After a promotion against Richmond in round eight, Swan has not looked back, tagging well in the back pocket, and relishing runs through the centre. Could be a vital cog in Collingwood’s backline for the next couple of seasons. Has put aside off-field troubles to become a valuable member of the 22. Grade: C+
Brayden Shaw: 2/10 – After 18 months on the list the nuggetty son of Tony Shaw is still yet to find a place in the senior side. Has performed well for Williamstown. Grade: E
Adam Iacobucci: 3.5/10 – Much to like about the young man from Calder’s brand of football. Hard at the player and the ball, Iacobucci has been touted as a future replacement for Paul Licuria, as a hard working in-and-under midfielder. Super fit with good skills, Iacobucci was unlucky to be dropped after his second game (the Fremantle capitulation) – a match where he showed he has what it takes. Grade: D
Heath Shaw: 1.5/10 – Although it was reported he was to debut on Anzac Day, Shaw has struggled to make a name for himself at Williamstown, and may be facing an uncertain future. Sure to get a run soon. Grade: E
Brent Hall: 1/10 – Is yet to cement his name in the Seagulls senior line up, and is still coming to terms with AFL football. The second round draft choice of 2003 would like to get a wriggle on, to ensure he is able to retain his spot on the list. Grade: F
Rookie List:
Ben Davies: 4/10 – A bright prospect selected at pick four in the 2004 Rookie Draft, the former Western Jet was named as his side’s best in the heavy defeat at the hands of the Dockers – where he wracked up over 15 touches. Was slipped back into the VFL a few weeks later, where he has worked hard to keep his name in the selection lights. A player with a big future ahead. Grade: D+
Hertier O’Brien: 3/10 – The West Australian of Brazilian heritage has looked solid across halfback for the Williamstown seniors in recent weeks, and after the injury to Shaw must surely be looking at a spot on the senior list. Grade: D
Zane Leonard: 1/10 – The poor bloke just cannot take a trick at the moment. Knee and facial injuries marring his season – his second in AFL ranks. Has shown promise in his limited opportunities. Grade: F
David Fanning: 3.5/10 – Had his name thrust into the lights when he made his debut in round one in the ruck up against Luke Darcy. Was then sent back to the VFL, where he showed some good form, working his way back to senior ranks against The Eagles and Hawks, where he showed promising signs against the AFL’s two hottest ruckmen – Dean Cox and Peter Everett.
Rating System:
10: A+
9: A
8: B+
7: B
6: C+
5: C
4: D+
3: D
2: E
1: F
