Magpies display fortune and glory
May 24th 2008 00:22
Left behind - Collingwood were just a level above as they destroyed the Reigning premiers
What an outstanding performance from the Collingwood magpies last night.
Infront of over 75,000 fans, Collingwood have finally displayed all the necessary components that will challenge Geelong's stranglehold on the AFL in recent seasons.
The Magpies tackled without mercy and attacked without hinderance. They played with heart and are now a team that looks set to shine for the rest of the season.
Many thought it was the blockbuster encounter of the AFL this season after one of the great preliminary finals last year saw both Geelong and Collingwood fight blow for blow for Grand Final supremacy.
Unfortunetly for the Cats, the Magpies just looked the more eager last night.
From the opening bounce, Collingwood allowed Geelong no space and time, their ball playing capabilities literally squandered.
In simple terms the Magpies just wanted it more and it will be no surprise now to coach Mick Malthouse that his team are now in a position to warrant fear and respect.
The key now for the Magpies will be to maintain their recent intensity against all sides in the AFL. This is where the premiership contenders truly stand out, and it is why Geelong have dominated for the period they have.
The Cats have shown their respective opposition this season no chance. Mark Thompson has transformed a side that two years ago was the laughing stock of the AFL.
At present, despite this heavy loss, they are the benchmark of the AFL by the length of the Nile river such has been their superiority.
I can almost guarantee that the Cats will almost certaintly bounce back from this heavy loss and win the following week.
The question for the Magpies however remains one of consistency. They, like most Melbourne teams, thrive on crowd support and adrenaline. When these two components are in check like last night, the Magpies can be a pleasure to watch.
But how often have we seen a team with the star-studded status of Collingwood regularly falter in matches they are supposed to win.
TIme and time again they have consistently failed to live up to their billing as the Victorian capitals great hope for premiership glory.
Collingwood's ability in big matches cannot be questioned. They have now shown they are right up their with the best of teams.
Whether they can finish off the lesser lights in a long and winding season remains to be seen.
So far the signs are that the Magpies will be there late September. Their performance last night was one that Collingwood fans can cherish forever.
Question is, how long can the Magpies keep this up?
The next five weeks will show if Collingwood are serious about claiming the Premiership that has eluded them for so long now. Pies fans are now set for one hell of a ride for the remainder of season 2008.
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