2019 Preliminary Final: The Team & Preview

2019 Preliminary Final COLLINGWOOD v GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY Time & Place: Saturday Sept. 21, 4:35pm AEST MCG TV: 7 / Fox Footy 4:30pm AEST Weather: Min 11 Max 17 Chance of rain: 60% 1-5mm Wind: WNW 17kph Betting: Collingwood $1.31 Geelong $3.50

B: John Noble, Jordan Roughead, Jeremy Howe

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Brayden Maynard

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom

HF: Josh Thomas, Brody Mihocek, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jamie Elliott, Ben Reid, Jaidyn Stephenson

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams

I/C: James Aish, Callum L. Brown, Chris Mayne, Rupert Wills

Emg: Josh Daicos, Jack Madgen, Matthew Scharenberg, Travis Varcoe

In: Ben Reid, James Aish
Out: Jordan De Goey (Injured), Levi Greenwood (Injured)

Milestones:: Ben Reid  - Playing 150th game

Collingwood News Ben Reid will play his 150th AFL game against the Giants Collingwood has made two changes to its side ahead of the blockbuster preliminary final against the Greater Western Sydney Giants at the MCG on Saturday. Ben Reid makes his way back into the side in place of Jordan De Goey (hamstring). It will be Reid's first senior game since round 15. The 30-year-old has trained strongly over the last four weeks since injuring his hamstring at training. Coach Nathan Buckley has been pleased with his preparation heading into Saturday afternoon's game. “He’s been in full training for about a month now.” Buckley told reporters on Thursday. It will be Reid's 150th AFL game for the Magpies. Defender James Aish returns in place of Levi Greenwood (knee) after overcoming a shoulder injury that has seen him sidelined since round 18. In what is set to be a fiery encounter, Buckley has backed in his side to stand up to the Giants' aggressive nature. "Our hardness inside stacks up for itself," Buckley said. "The way that the Giants have gone about it, I think you've got to be impressed with the steel that they have brought into their game. They were clearly challenged around that four or five weeks ago. "The niggle stuff is part of the game. You can buy into it if you want, or you can just go and play footy really hard, and that's the way we prefer to go about it." It will be a do-or-die clash at the colosseum of football that will have 80,000 fans on the edge of their seats. The Magpie Army will be out in force, cheering loud and proud to decorate the 'G black and white.

AFL 2019 Preliminary Final Collingwood v GWS What it means for Collingwood: The chance to progress to a second successive Grand Final – which would be a remarkable achievement after the tumult of 2017 – and another chance to be the finals party pooper for the Giants. What it means for GWS: An opportunity to make their first Grand Final after losing their previous preliminary finals in 2016 and 2017. It would also show great steel to win their third final in a row while missing stars Stephen Coniglio, Lachie Whitfield, Callan Ward and possibly Toby Greene. The stat: The Giants have lost both of their finals at the MCG, where they have won just two of their past 11 games. The victories were against a depleted Collingwood in round two last year and against Melbourne in round 10 this year. The match-up: Jeremy Cameron v Darcy Moore Coleman medallist Cameron (No.64 in the Official AFL Player Ratings) and intercept specialist Moore (down at No.352, affected by injury absences) are set to stage a hard-running, high-flying duel that might well be worth the admission price alone. It's a big week for: Josh Kelly With Whitfield ruled out and Greene another potential absentee, the Giants' best remaining playmaker could be required to produce a career-defining performance against a Magpie midfield that is humming. The silky left-footer's finals form has been strong, averaging 24 touches and two goals. He might need to lift that to 30 and three. Big call: Giants little man Brent Daniels and Pies opponent John Noble to stage a sprint that will remind many of ex-Swan Lewis Jetta burning off Hawk Cyril Rioli in the 2012 Grand Final. Prediction: Magpies by 16 points

2019 Qualifying Final: The Team & Preview

2019 Qualifying Final COLLINGWOOD v GEELONG Time & Place: Friday Sept. 6, 7:50pm AEST MCG TV: 7mate / Fox Footy 7:30pm AEST Weather: Min 10 Max 14 Chance of rain: 80% 5-10mm Wind: W 13kph Betting: Collingwood $2.10 Geelong $1.72

B: Levi Greenwood, Jordan Roughead, Jeremy Howe

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Brayden Maynard

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne

HF: Steele Sidebottom, Brody Mihocek, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jamie Elliott, Jordan De Goey, Jaidyn Stephenson

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams 

I/C: John Noble, Callum L. Brown, Josh Thomas, Rupert Wills

Emg: Matthew Scharenberg, Travis Varcoe, Jack Madgen, Josh Daicos

In: Steele Sidebottom, Jordan De Goey, Jaidyn Stephenson
Out: Matthew Scharenberg (Omitted), Jack Madgen (Omitted), Travis Varcoe (Omitted)

Milestones: Scott Pendlebury  - Playing 300th game

Collingwood News Captain Scott Pendlebury to play his 300th AFL game Collingwood has made three changes to its side ahead of the blockbuster qualifying final against Geelong at the MCG on Friday night. The Magpies' forward line will be bolstered by Jordan De Goey and Jaidyn Stephenson, while vice-captain Steele Sidebottom returns to the line-up after a week on the sidelines with a groin injury. De Goey returns from a hamstring injury that saw him miss the final four rounds of the home and away season. The 23-year-old has a proven record first-up after a spell and is raring to go. “I feel really good. I think I’m probably fitter than I was in the middle of the year. Hammy feels good. I feel good. I’m ready to go,” De Goey told reporters on Monday. “It was probably more mentally for me and taking the time it [my hamstring] needs. Being locked into finals helps, so I didn’t need to push too hard earlier on.” Stephenson is set to play his first AFL game since round 12 after which he received a 22-game suspension (12 suspended) for gambling on AFL matches. The 20-year-old hasn’t put a foot wrong during a strenuous training block and was lively for Collingwood’s VFL side two weeks ago. Captain Scott Pendlebury will achieve a historic milestone of 300 AFL games, the third to do so in the club’s history. “I’ve been extremely lucky so far across my career, you know, getting that many seasons in and no sort of injuries that have threatened my career. I’m looking forward to playing game 300, but more importantly the final,” Pendlebury told media on Wednesday. Collingwood have named Matthew Scharenberg, Travis Varcoe, Jack Madgen and Josh Daicos as the emergencies. The first bounce is set for 7.50pm, with the MCG expected to attract 95,000 fans.

AFL 2019 Qualifying Final Collingwood v Geelong Jaidyn Stephenson Suspension for betting is over. What it means for Geelong: The opportunity to bury the post-bye and finals record in one fell swoop and book a home preliminary final. Since winning the 2011 flag, the Cats are 2-11 following in-season weeks off and 3-9 in September overall. Veterans Joel Selwood, Harry Taylor and Gary Ablett would enjoy the extra week's rest, too. What it means for Collingwood: A home preliminary final is a tasty proposition for a team aiming to build continuity. Welcoming back Jaidyn Stephenson (gambling ban) and Jordan De Goey (injury) to play with Darcy Moore for just his second game in eight weeks would place the Pies in a strong position if they were to progress straight to the penultimate weekend. The stat: Dating back to round 22, 2017, Geelong has held Collingwood to an average of 56.6 points in their past three meetings. In the 47 matches against all other opponents in that period, the Pies have scored an average of 90 points. The match-up: Rhys Stanley v Brodie Grundy They shared the honours back in round one but this could be Stanley's biggest test as a No.1 ruckman. Ranked No.2 overall in the Official AFL Player Ratings, Grundy is in career-best form as he prepares for Stanley (No.11 ranked ruckman). It's a big week for: Jaidyn Stephenson Friday night marks 88 days since Stephenson was last on an AFL field prior to his 10-week suspension for betting on Collingwood matches. In the first half of the season he was the focal point in attack for the Pies but just how much impact can he have on return? Big call: Chris Scott to flip the narrative and proclaim, "We're an anywhere, anytime team," as the Cats hold on in a thriller. Prediction: Cats by eight points

2019 Round 23: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 23 COLLINGWOOD v ESSENDON Time & Place: Friday August 23, 7:50pm AEST MCG TV: 7mate / Fox Footy 7:30pm AEST Weather: Min 5 Max 17 Chance of rain: 5% <1mm Wind: N 14kph Betting: Collingwood $1.38 Essendon $3.00

B: Levi Greenwood, Matthew Scharenberg, Jeremy Howe

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Brayden Maynard

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne

HF: Josh Thomas, Brody Mihocek, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jamie Elliott, Jordan Roughead, Callum L. Brown

Fol: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams

I/C: Jack Madgen, John Noble, Travis Varcoe, Rupert Wills

Emg: Tim Broomhead, Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, Josh Daicos

In: Darcy Moore 
Out: Steele Sidebottom (Injured)

Collingwood News Moore returns to face Essendon Collingwood has called up Darcy Moore for the clash against Essendon on Friday night. The 23-year-old was a revelation in the first half of the season for the Magpies in defence, and returns to the MCG after a troublesome hamstring saw him sidelined since round 17. Moore replaces Steele Sidebottom who was ruled out after rupturing a testicle and undergoing surgery on Wednesday. The Magpies have a slim chance of a top 4 finish but rely on other results to go their way. Coach Nathan Buckley is focused on the task that lies ahead in the Bombers. “We’ve got Essendon… we need to narrow our focus on that and execute the footy we’re capable of and building towards whatever September looks like for us,” Buckley said on Wednesday. Collingwood have named Tim Broomhead, Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker and Josh Daicos as the emergencies. The first bounce is set for 7.50pm, with the MCG expected to attract 83,000 fans. Jordan De Goey (hamstring) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 23 Collingwood v Essendon Shaping as another classic What it means for Collingwood: A chance to finish as high as third if both West Coast and Richmond lose. A defeat could result in a cut-throat clash with the white-hot Western Bulldogs. What it means for Essendon: Win and the Bombers will almost certainly remain seventh and face an away elimination final against Greater Western Sydney; lose and they will play an elimination final against either the Pies or perhaps even Richmond or West Coast. The stat: The Magpies have won their past three encounters with the Bombers, restricting them to an average score of just 61. The match-up: Adam Treloar v Dylan Shiel The former Greater Western Sydney teammates might well square off at stoppages, where it will be a battle between the game's most prolific ball-winner Treloar (ranked No. 17 in the Official AFL Player Ratings) and the second-ranked Bomber (No. 34). It’s a big week for: John Noble The Pies' mid-season recruit has played two AFL games and both have been road trips to Perth and Adelaide, so he finally gets his first opportunity to play in front of a big crowd at the MCG. But don't expect the occasion to faze the speedy little man, who has made a strong start to his career. Big call: Essendon coach John Worsfold will become animated on the sidelines while Collingwood counterpart Nathan Buckley watches on with apparent indifference. Prediction: Collingwood by 19 points

2019 Round 22: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 22 COLLINGWOOD v ADELAIDE Time & Place: Saturday August 17, 4:35pm AEST Adelaide Oval TV: Fox Footy 4:30pm AEST Weather: Min 10 Max 20 Chance of rain: 60% 1-5mm Wind: NNW 15kph Betting: Collingwood $2.25 Adelaide $1.63

B: Levi Greenwood, Matthew Scharenberg, Jeremy Howe

HB: Jack Crisp, Jack Madgen, Brayden Maynard

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne

HF: Callum L. Brown, Brody Mihocek, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jamie Elliott, Jordan Roughead, Steele Sidebottom

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams

I/C: John Noble, Josh Thomas, Travis Varcoe, Rupert Wills

Emg: Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, Josh Daicos, Mark Keane

In: John Noble
Out: Josh Daicos (Omitted)

Milestones: Levi Greenwood - Playing 150th game

Collingwood News John Noble to replace Josh Daicos against Adelaide Collingwood has regained John Noble for the clash against Adelaide on Saturday afternoon. The dashing half back returns to the line-up for his second AFL game after sustaining a calf injury in his debut against West Coast. Noble has been an outstanding contributor to Collingwood’s VFL side in recent weeks and replaces Josh Daicos who has been omitted from the trip to Adelaide Oval. “He’s a chance and has played some really good footy recently,” Buckley told reporters on Thursday. Levi Greenwood is set to play his 150th AFL game after starting his career at North Melbourne in 2009. The 30-year-old was drafted to Collingwood in 2014 and has played 75 games in the black and white. Collingwood have named Tyler Brown, Josh Daicos, Ben Crocker and Mark Keane as the emergencies. Brown and Daicos will travel with the team to Adelaide. The first bounce is set for 4.05pm (Adelaide time), with the Adelaide Oval expected to attract 43,000 fans. Jordan De Goey (hamstring), Darcy Moore (hamstring) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 22 Collingwood v Adelaide What it means for Adelaide: The Crows – who sit out of the top eight on percentage - could kiss their finals chances goodbye if they lose to the Magpies. A win potentially has them as high as seventh by the end of the weekend. What it means for Collingwood: A win could push the Magpies up to fourth if Richmond loses to West Coast. But if the Magpies lose to the Crows, and the Tigers beat the Eagles, then the double chance in the finals is gone. Adam Treloar Leading the League with 33.9 disposals per game The stat: This is just the fifth game the Magpies have played outside Victoria this season. They are 3-1 away from their home state, having beaten Brisbane, Sydney and West Coast on the road, but lost to Greater Western Sydney at Giants Stadium in round 18. The match-up: Matt Crouch v Adam Treloar The Crows don't employ a tagger so will back their midfielders to get on top of the Magpies. Crouch (82nd overall in the Official AFL Player Ratings) is coming off a massive 43 disposals against West Coast, while Treloar (18th overall) is leading the League with 33.9 disposals per game. It's a big week for: Sam Jacobs Not only is it his 200th game, but the experienced Crows ruckman will have his hands full against Magpies star Brodie Grundy. Jacobs was strong in his return game against West Coast last week – his first appearance at senior level since round two – and will be better for the run. Big call: Crows co-captain Taylor Walker kicks four goals, including two in the last term, to keep his side's finals chances alive against an undermanned Magpies. Prediction: Crows by five points

2019 Round 21: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 21 COLLINGWOOD v MELBOURNE Time & Place: Saturday August 10, 1:45pm AEST MCG TV: Fox Footy 1:30pm AEST Weather: Min 5 Max 11 Chance of rain: 80% 10-20mm Wind: WSW 25kph Betting: Collingwood $1.44 Melbourne $2.75

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Jeremy Howe

HB: Jack Crisp, Matthew Scharenberg, Chris Mayne

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Josh Daicos

HF: Callum L. Brown, Brody Mihocek, Travis Varcoe 

F: Jamie Elliott, Will Hoskin-Elliott, Steele Sidebottom 

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams 

I/C: Levi Greenwood, Jack Madgen, Josh Thomas, Rupert Wills

Emg: Tim Broomhead, Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, John Noble

In: Jack Madgen
Out: Mason Cox (Injured)

Collingwood News Jack Madgen returns to the AFL side for the first time since round 10. Collingwood has called up defender Jack Madgen for Saturday’s clash with Melbourne at the MCG. The 26-year-old will provide the Magpies with much needed height after Mason Cox was ruled out for the remainder of the season after having surgery to repair a torn retina. After booting four goals last week, Will Hoskin-Elliott lines up at full forward and is set to go head-to-head with Melbourne’s Oscar McDonald. In what will be one of the most anticipated ruck contests of the season, Brodie Grundy and Max Gawn are in career best form and sit among the top 3 on the AFL Player Ratings. Collingwood have named Tim Broomhead, Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker and John Noble as the emergencies. The first bounce is set for 1.45pm, with the MCG expected to attract 45,000 fans. Jordan De Goey (hamstring), Darcy Moore (hamstring) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 21 Collingwood v Melbourne Jeremy Howe: Mark of the Year contender What it means for Melbourne: Not much more to salvage but pride from this disappointing year. A win over traditional rivals Collingwood would be a sweet note to take into the end of a sour season. What it means for Collingwood: The push for top four continues for the Pies after their percentage-boosting win over Gold Coast. Can almost guarantee a top-six finish with a win against Melbourne. The stat: Collingwood's biggest strength is its ability to win the ball. The Magpies lead the competition in average disposals with 403.6 a game. By contrast, Melbourne is in 13th position with an average of 363.1 touches per match. The match-up: Max Gawn v Brodie Grundy Everyone's favourite ruck battle. Gawn is ranked the best player in the competition in the AFL Player Ratings, while Grundy is sitting 3rd overall. Both were Virgin Australia AFL All Australians last year, with Gawn pipping Grundy for the starting ruck role. It's a big week for: Braydon Preuss The ruck recruit was always going to struggle to get a match ahead of Gawn but is now desperately needed as a key forward due to Melbourne's injury woes. Didn't make much of an impact against Richmond and the Dees need a marking target. Big call: Jeremy Howe loves a hanger, especially against his old side. Don't be surprised if the JLT Mark of the Year is taken in this match. Prediction: Magpies by 39 points

2019 Round 20: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 20 COLLINGWOOD v GOLD COAST Time & Place: Sunday August 4, 1:10pm AEST MCG TV: Fox Footy 1:00pm AEST Weather: Min 8 Max 14 Chance of rain: 20% <1mm Wind: NNE 3kph Betting: Collingwood $1.11 Gold Coast  $6.25

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Jeremy Howe

HB: Jack Crisp, Matthew Scharenberg, Levi Greenwood

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom

HF: Callum L. Brown, Mason Cox, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jamie Elliott, Brody Mihocek, Travis Varcoe

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams

I/C: Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, Josh Daicos, Jack Madgen, Chris Mayne, Josh Thomas, John Noble, Rupert Wills (Four to be omitted)

In: Levi Greenwood, Taylor Adams, Tyler Brown, Jack Madgen, John Noble, Rupert Wills
Out: Jordan De Goey (Injured), Isaac Quaynor (Injured)

New: Tyler Brown

Milestones: Jamie Elliott  - Playing 100th game

Collingwood News Taylor Adams is back in the Pies' line-up Collingwood has regained Taylor Adams and Levi Greenwood for Sunday's clash with Gold Coast at the MCG. Adams was a late withdrawal from the side that lost to Richmond last weekend due to hamstring soreness, while Greenwood returns after missing the past two matches due to a hamstring problem of his own. Tyler Brown, John Noble, Jack Madgen and Rupert Wills have also come into the Pies' 26-man squad. Injuries have forced Isaac Quaynor (foot) and Jordan De Goey (hamstring) out of the team. Brayden Sier (calf), James Aish (shoulder), Darcy Moore (hamstring) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were among the other players unavailable for selection. Collingwood will hold its main training session for the week on Friday morning. The Pies' 22-man team will be confirmed at 5pm that evening. Sunday's game is set to attract a crowd of around 35,000. Kids get in free as part of the AFL's Sunday Funday initiative.

AFL Preview Round 20 Collingwood v Gold Coast Mason Cox: Goalless in the past two rounds. What it means for Collingwood: An absolute must-win game and preferably a percentage- booster for an injury-plagued, out-of-form team that still hopes to have an impact in the finals. Lose here and they might well be free in September. What it means for Gold Coast: After coming within a whisker of upsetting Essendon at home, a win over Collingwood at the home of football would be a great way for the bottom team to break a 14-game drought. The stat: The two teams have met in Melbourne just twice and on both occasions the Magpies posted landslide victories – by 97 points at the MCG in round 10, 2012 (the Suns' second season), and by 71 points at Docklands in round 22, 2016. The match-up: Brodie Grundy v Jarrod Witts Grundy (the second-ranked ruckman at No. 3 overall in the Official AFL Player Ratings) has had another huge season, but was below his best in the loss to Richmond and is expected to face stiff resistance from in-form Suns co-captain Witts (the ninth-ranked ruckman at No. 70), who left Collingwood at the end of 2016 for more opportunity. It’s a big week for: Mason Cox The Magpie giant contributed 18 goals in his first 11 outings this season, but has been held goalless in the past two rounds while averaging just 7.5 touches and 3.5 marks. As is the case with 100-game goalsneak Jamie Elliott, the 'American Pie' has probably kept his spot because of the Woods' injury crisis. Big call: The Suns will again surrender a late lead, providing some respite for the under-siege Woods. Prediction: Magpies by 19 points

2019 Round 19: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 19 COLLINGWOOD v RICHMOND Time & Place: Friday July 26, 7:50pm AEST MCG TV: 7mate / Fox Footy 7:30pm AEST Weather: Min 10 Max 14 Chance of rain: 90% 10-20mm Wind: NW 8kph Betting: Collingwood $2.39 Richmond $1.56

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Jeremy Howe 

HB: Isaac Quaynor, Matthew Scharenberg, Jack Crisp 

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom

HF: Callum L. Brown, Mason Cox, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jordan De Goey, Brody Mihocek, Jamie Elliott

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Taylor Adams

I/C: Chris Mayne, Josh Thomas, Travis Varcoe, Josh Daicos 

Emg: Tyler Brown, Rupert Wills, Ben Crocker, Tyson Goldsack

In: Matthew Scharenberg, Jamie Elliott, Josh Thomas, Josh Daicos
Out: Ben Crocker (Omitted), Brayden Sier (Injured), James Aish (Injured), Flynn Appleby (Omitted)

Collingwood News Jamie Elliott to play against Richmond Collingwood has called up Josh Daicos, Jamie Elliott, Matthew Scharenberg and Josh Thomas for the blockbuster clash against Richmond at the MCG on Friday night. Scharenberg returns after a string of notable performances for Collingwood’s VFL side. The medium-defender was influential in their 3-point win over Frankston, finishing with 25 disposals, five tackles and named among the best players. Elliott has overcome general soreness that saw him sit out the round 18 clash, with coach Nathan Buckley wanting to explore the forward line mix in an attempt to find the scoreboard more. “We like the fact that we’re getting access, that part of our offence is working well. The forward mix is as important to defend on that front line. Largely, around stoppage was out biggest concern against the Giants and we think we can do that better,” Buckley said. Small forwards Daicos and Thomas come back into the AFL side after a two-game stint in the VFL. Inside midfielder Brayden Sier has been ruled out with a calf injury, while James Aish hasn't recovered from a shoulder injury sustained in the loss to the Giants. Ben Crocker and Flynn Appleby have been omitted from the round 19 side. Collingwood have named Tyler Brown, Rupert Wills, Ben Crocker and Tyson Goldsack as the emergencies. The first bounce is set for 7.50pm, with the MCG expected to attract 82,000 fans. Levi Greenwood (hamstring) Darcy Moore (hamstring) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 19 Collingwood v Richmond What it means for Collingwood: The Magpies' season is quickly spiralling out of control. They've lost three of their past four games, two of them by at least 44 points, but a win against the Tigers will keep them in the top four. What it means for Richmond: The Tigers seems to be timing their run to perfection, and a fifth successive win will lift them back into the top four for the first time since round 10. They also have the chance to gain some belated vengeance for last year's preliminary final drubbing. The stat: The Pies have smashed the Tigers in their past two clashes, by 39 points in last year's preliminary final and by 44 points in round two, while restricting Damien Hardwick's men to just eight and 10 goals respectively. The match-up: Tom Lynch v Jordan Roughead Tigers spearhead Lynch (ranked No. 294 in the Official AFL Player Ratings) is moving into top gear but former Bulldogs big man Roughead (No. 220) has been one of the value recruits of the year. Lynch kicked three goals last time. It's a big week for: Jason Castagna The Richmond opportunist has been in good touch with eight goals in his past three games, but in his past two outings against the Pies he has averaged just nine possessions and tallied just one behind. This is his chance to shine against a depleted Collingwood defence. Big call: After taking a remarkable piggyback speccy against Greater Western Sydney last week, spring-heeled Magpie Jeremy Howe will, for his next trick, complete a human pyramid screamer. Prediction: Richmond by 21 points

2019 Round 17: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 17 COLLINGWOOD v WEST COAST Time & Place: Friday July 12, 8:10pm AEST Perth Stadium TV: 7mate / Fox Footy 8:00pm AEST Weather: Min 8 Max 19 Chance of rain: 5% <1mm Wind: ESE 11kph Betting: Collingwood $3.01 West Coast $1.35

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Levi Greenwood

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Isaac Quaynor

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne

HF: Callum L. Brown, Mason Cox, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jordan De Goey, Brody Mihocek, Jamie Elliott

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Steele Sidebottom

I/C: James Aish, John Noble, Brayden Sier, Ben Crocker

Emg: Tyler Brown, Josh Thomas, Matthew Scharenberg, Josh Daicos

In: Levi Greenwood, John Noble, Ben Crocker
Out: Matthew Scharenberg (Omitted), Josh Thomas (Omitted), Josh Daicos (Omitted)

New: John Noble

Collingwood News John Noble to debut Collingwood has called up Ben Crocker, Levi Greenwood and John Noble for the clash against West Coast at Optus Stadium on Friday night. The Magpies will blood their second debutant of the season with mid-season draftee John Noble ready to realise his AFL aspirations against the Eagles. Collingwood coach Nathan Buckley believes the injection of Noble’s speed and decision-making will play a vital role. “We see an opportunity where John’s strengths are actually what we’re asking for at the moment,” Buckley said. “He's got a lot of dash, he takes the game on, he uses the ball really well, he's courageous with his decisions, he's very forthright in the way that he goes about the game, but he's actually been defending very well, he's always in the right spot and competing and contesting really well.” The 22-year-old has been a revelation since walking into the club, averaging 24 disposals for Collingwood’s VFL side in three appearances. Ben Crocker comes into the line-up for his first senior game of the year. The crafty forward has kicked 10 goals at VFL level while being named emergency for the AFL side a number of times this season. Defender Levi Greenwood returns from a shoulder injury that sidelined him against Hawthorn in round 16. Collingwood have named Tyler Brown, Josh Thomas, Matthew Scharenberg and Josh Daicos as the emergencies. The first bounce is set for 6.10pm (AWST), with the Optus Stadium expected to attract approximately 55,000 fans. Taylor Adams (groin) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 17 Collingwood v West Coast What it means for West Coast: It's the proverbial 'eight-point game' for the Eagles, who could tighten their grip on second spot and move two wins clear of one of their rivals. What it means for Collingwood: A chance to put the brakes on the runaway train the season is fast becoming after three losses in five games. Upsetting West Coast in Perth would relieve the building pressure. The stat: West Coast has won the past four clashes – three of them at the MCG – by an average of 19.5 points. The Pies haven't kicked more than 11 goals in any of those games. The match-up: Nic Naitanui v Brodie Grundy. Looms as the decisive battle. The impact Naitanui (No.281 in Official AFL Player Ratings) has on West Coast is hard to quantify, but the Eagles booted more than half their score from stoppages in the Western Derby and have dominated clearances since his return. Grundy (No.3) is arguably the game's best ruckman, and averages 20.7 disposals – more than double Naitanui (10) – while he has a slight edge in hit out to advantage percentage (30.7 to 28.1). It’s a big week for: Mason Cox The giant American is under the pump and has only kicked 15 goals and taken 45 marks from 10 games in a side that is struggling to hit the scoreboard. Cox will have his work cut out against Tom Barrass with Jeremy McGovern coming across to help when he can, but the Pies need him to lift with the side averaging just 72.5 points – 15th in the AFL – in the past six games. Big call: Eagles spearhead Josh Kennedy to return fresh from a weekend off and drill a season-best five goals. Prediction: Eagles by 21 points

2019 Round 16: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 16 COLLINGWOOD v HAWTHORN Time & Place: Friday July 5, 7:50pm MCG TV: 7mate 7:00pm Fox Footy 7:30pm Weather: Min 5 Max 18 Chance of rain: 5% <1mm Wind: NE 6kph Betting: Collingwood $1.41 Hawthorn $2.75

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Matthew Scharenberg

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Isaac Quaynor

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne

HF: Callum L. Brown, Mason Cox, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jordan De Goey, Brody Mihocek, Jamie Elliott

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Steele Sidebottom

I/C: James Aish, Josh Daicos, Brayden Sier, Josh Thomas

Emg: Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, John Noble, Travis Varcoe

In: Isaac Quaynor, Jamie Elliott, James Aish
Out: Travis Varcoe (Omitted), Ben Reid (Injured), Levi Greenwood (Injured)

New: Isaac Quaynor

Collingwood News Defender Isaac Quaynor to debut Collingwood has named James Aish, Jamie Elliott and Isaac Quaynor for the clash against Hawthorn at the MCG on Friday night. Quaynor will be the Magpies’ first debutant of the season, with coach Nathan Buckley praising the 19-year-old’s mature attributes since joining the club. "He's a very strong, physical player, a good one-on-one player, strong in the air and strong on the ground. His GPS numbers indicate that he's right up there in terms of the physical attributes required to play the game and he does provide a bit of dash when the opportunity (arises)," Buckley said. Jamie Elliott makes his highly anticipated return after eight weeks on the sidelines managing a hamstring injury and is more than prepared for the task at hand on Friday night. "He's over-ready. He could’ve played last week. He's ready to take the next step," Buckley said. James Aish returns to the line-up after being a late withdrawal against North Melbourne. The Magpies will be without tall-forward Ben Reid, who suffered a calf injury against North Melbourne. Levi Greenwood comes out of the team as he manages a minor back injury, while Travis Varcoe has been omitted from the round 16 side. Collingwood have named Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, John Noble and Travis Varcoe as the emergencies. The first bounce is set for 7.50pm, with the MCG expected to attract 66,000 fans. Taylor Adams (groin) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 16 Collingwood v Hawthorn What it means for Hawthorn: The Hawks are officially struggling. Four straight losses have put them in the bottom four, while they are now two games and percentage from a finals spot. They simply must win on Friday night to stand any chance of September footy. What it means for Collingwood: Unconvincing wins have papered over the cracks at the Pies. They have been poor for a while now and Nathan Buckley has made no secret of this. A complete display in a prime time slot could reinvigorate the side's season. The stat: Hawthorn has a remarkably strong recent record against Collingwood, winning 11 of their last 12 encounters in a run stretching back to 2012. The match-up: Jordan De Goey v James Sicily It's the individual contest we all want to see. Two of the game's brightest young prospects at either end of the field, both with massive personalities and incredible talent. It would be fantastic to see them go at it under the Friday night lights at the MCG. It's a big week for: Nathan Buckley (and Collingwood) Having sprayed his side after a victory over the Western Bulldogs a fortnight ago, the Collingwood coach was desperate for a response against North Melbourne on Saturday night. He didn't get it. Incredibly disappointed with his team's form, he'll be hopeful of masterminding a turnaround this week. Big call: Bucks loses patience, rings the changes, sparks a response. Prediction: Collingwood by 29 points

2019 Round 15: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 15 COLLINGWOOD v  NORTH MELBOURNE Time & Place: Saturday June 29, 7:25pm Docklands TV: Fox Footy 7:20pm Weather: Min 13 Max 16 Chance of rain: 90% 5-10mm Wind: NNE 22kph Betting: Collingwood $1.34 North Melbourne $3.20

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Levi Greenwood

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, James Aish

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne

HF: Josh Thomas, Mason Cox, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jordan De Goey, Brody Mihocek, Travis Varcoe

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Steele Sidebottom

I/C: Callum L. Brown, Josh Daicos, Ben Reid, Brayden Sier

Emg: Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, Max Lynch, Matthew Scharenberg

In: Josh Daicos
Out: Jeremy Howe (Injured)

Collingwood News Josh Daicos to play against North Melbourne. Collingwood has called up small forward Josh Daicos for the clash against North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night. Daicos form has been damaging in Collingwood’s VFL side for a number of weeks, and earns senior selection for the first time this season. The 20-year-old is averaging 22 disposals and has kicked four goals at VFL level. Jeremy Howe has been ruled out after injuring his calf against the Western Bulldogs. The Magpies have named Tyler Brown, Ben Crocker, Max Lynch and Matt Scharenberg as the emergencies. The first bounce is set for 7.25pm, with Marvel Stadium expected to attract 41,000 fans. Taylor Adams (groin), Jamie Elliott (hamstring) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 15 Collingwood v North Melbourne What it means for Collingwood: This season the Magpies have generally done little more than what's been required to win, and they were flat in their victory over the wasteful Bulldogs last round. Expect them to show more energy and increase their defensive efforts. What it means for North Melbourne: A golden opportunity for the rebuilding Roos to produce an upset against a highly rated opponent that has been less than convincing in recent weeks. Their best chance might be to play fast but with discretion. The stat: In their past two head-to-head clashes the Magpies have burst clear early to win by 54 and 66 points respectively, while keeping the Roos to tallies of just seven and nine goals. The match-up: Brodie Grundy v Todd Goldstein Magpies star Grundy (ranked the AFL's second-best ruckman at No.3 in the Official AFL Player Ratings) will face stiff opposition from Kangaroos southpaw Goldstein (the fourth-ranked ruckman at No.20) . It's a big week for: Rhyce Shaw Straight after coaching against his younger brother, Greater Western Sydney veteran Heath Shaw, North's caretaker coach takes on his beloved former club where his family name is royalty. The emotion of the occasion won't get to him – he has already taken on the Pies plenty of times as a Swans player and assistant coach. Big call: Pies key defender Darcy Moore, a contender for a spot in the All Australian team, will eclipse his personal-best effort of five contested marks. Prediction: Magpies by 21 points

2019 Round 14: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 14 COLLINGWOOD v FOOTSCRAY Time & Place: Sunday June 23, 3:20pm Docklands TV: Fox Footy 3:00pm Weather: Min 4 Max 13 Chance of rain: 10% <1mm Wind: S 5kph Betting: Collingwood $1.30 Footscray $3.32

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Levi Greenwood

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Jeremy Howe

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom

HF: Josh Thomas, Jordan De Goey, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Callum L. Brown, Brody Mihocek, Travis Varcoe

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Adam Treloar, Brayden Sier

I/C: James Aish, Mason Cox, Ben Crocker, Josh Daicos, Max Lynch, Chris Mayne, Isaac Quaynor, Ben Reid (Four to be omitted)

In: Ben Crocker, Josh Daicos, Max Lynch, Isaac Quaynor, Ben Reid
Out: Jaidyn Stephenson (Suspension)

New: Max Lynch, Isaac Quaynor

Collingwood News Jaidyn Stephenson: 10 match suspension and $20,000 fine for punting on the Pies. Collingwood have named Ben Crocker and Josh Daicos as possible replacements for Jaidyn Stephenson for the clash against the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Sunday. Crocker and Daicos were both named on the extended bench in the 26-man squad alongside James Aish, Ben Reid, Isaac Quaynor, Chris Mayne and Max Lynch. At this stage, Stephenson is the only omission from the team. Collingwood’s 22-man team for the round 14 clash will be finalised on Friday at 5pm. The first bounce is set for 3.20pm, with Marvel Stadium expected to attract 25,000 fans. Taylor Adams (groin), Dayne Beams (hip), Jamie Elliott (hamstring) and Jaidyn Stephenson (suspension) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 14 Collingwood v Western Bulldogs What it means for the Western Bulldogs: Given their upcoming run of fixtures, it's big. They face Collingwood, an interstate trip to Port Adelaide and Geelong in the next three games, so this result could be the difference between breathing new life and momentum into their season or falling irretrievably adrift of the chasing pack outside the eight. What it means for Collingwood: Five teams currently lead the race to finish top four, and with Geelong setting the pace, pressure remains on third-placed Collingwood and co. Their eight wins in the past nine games started by beating the Bulldogs and they need to keep the ball rolling. The stat: Collingwood star ruckman Brodie Grundy won the hitout count 60-6 against Tim English in round four this season. The All Australian monstered his more inexperienced opponent and in doing so had the highest percentage of hitouts in a game during the AFL era The match-up: Marcus Bontempelli v Scott Pendlebury Both are stars, both are born leaders, both are left-footers, both find time and space like few others. The similarities between Bontempelli (14th in the Official AFL Player Ratings) and Pendlebury (25th) are evident. If either gets the upper hand, their side will be well on the way to a win. It’s a big week for: Josh Dunkley The Bulldogs' midfielder re-signed with the club for a further three years on Tuesday and has set a remarkable standard in the past six weeks, averaging 32.5 disposals to provide another dimension in the middle. A career-best 41 touches last week against Carlton alerted many to his rapid rise, and now arguably the premier midfield group in the competition awaits as his latest challenge. Big call: Dunkley gets leather poisoning again with 40-plus disposals. Prediction: Collingwood by 12 points

2019 Round 12: The Team & Preview

2019 AFL Round 12 COLLINGWOOD v MELBOURNE Time & Place: Monday June 10, 3:20pm MCG TV: 7mate / Fox Footy 3:00pm Weather: Min 12 Max 18 Chance of rain: 70% 1-5mm Wind: NNW 21kph Betting: Collingwood $1.38 Melbourne $3.00

B: Brayden Maynard, Jordan Roughead, Levi Greenwood

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Jeremy Howe

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Chris Mayne

HF: Josh Thomas, Brody Mihocek, Will Hoskin-Elliott

F: Jaidyn Stephenson, Jordan De Goey, Callum L. Brown

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Steele Sidebottom, Adam Treloar

I/C: Brayden Sier, Mason Cox, James Aish, Travis Varcoe, Ben Reid, Isaac Quaynor, Josh Daicos, Ben Crocker (Four to be omitted)

In: Brayden Sier, Mason Cox, Isaac Quaynor, Josh Daicos, Ben Crocker
Out: Dayne Beams (Injured)

New: Isaac Quaynor

Milestone: Jordan Roughead  - Playing 150th game

Collingwood News Dayne Beams May miss rest of season due to hip injury. Collingwood has named Brayden Sier and Mason Cox on an extended bench to face Melbourne at the MCG on Monday afternoon. Sier’s form has progressed in recent weeks in Collingwood’s VFL side, collecting 34 disposals and a goal against Port Melbourne on Sunday. The 21-year-old was a revelation for the Magpies in the back half of last season. With Dayne Beams injured, coach Nathan Buckley is backing everyone in the team to cover the loss of the star midfielder. "We think we've got a strong philosophy of role play and blokes coming in and playing their role," Buckley said. "At various times the synergy and the connection of the team is better or worse and that's probably what form is and if we're in good form then the rising tide carries all boats – we go a bit better." Cox has overcome an ankle issue that has seen the 211cm forward sidelined for five weeks. Alongside Sier and Cox on the extended bench are James Aish, Travis Varcoe, Ben Reid, Isaac Quaynor, Josh Daicos and Ben Crocker. Taylor Adams (groin), Dayne Beams (hip) and Jamie Elliott (hamstring) were unavailable for selection.

AFL Preview Round 12 Collingwood v Melbourne What it means for Collingwood: A win would complete a successful first half of the season before the third-placed Pies enjoy a well-earned rest, but a second successive upset loss at the MCG would raise some doubts. What it means for Melbourne: Simon Goodwin's team needs to recapture some semblance of the uncompromising brand they created last year, and only that will do against a rebounding Collingwood. Victory could kickstart the 16th-placed Demons on a long road to recovery. The stat: The Demons have been hot favourites in their past two clashes against the Pies but have failed miserably on both occasions – by 16 points in the last round of 2017, thus missing the finals, and by 42 points in last year's Queen's Birthday clash. The match-up: Brodie Grundy v Max Gawn In the eyes of many, Magpie big man Grundy (ranked No.3 in the Official AFL Player Ratings) has taken over from Demon counterpart Gawn (No.1) as the AFL's premier ruckman, so here's the perfect opportunity to settle it – at least for now. It's a big week for: Sam Weideman It'll also be a long week for the young key forward after he fluffed a chance to be the hero in his AFL return against Adelaide in Darwin, missing an otherwise regulation set shot in the dying seconds. He'll be keen to atone in his first Queen's Birthday game against the club his father and grandfather represented. Big call: Demon accumulator Clayton Oliver to break the handball record of 35 held by Crow Matt Crouch. Prediction: Magpies by 23 points