2017 Collingwood Season Review (Fox Sports)

Fox Sports

COLLINGWOOD (9-12-1)

Three-word analysis
Time for change.

What went right
The last two months were a step in the right direction for the Magpies. Despite winning just five of their first 15 matches, Collingwood lost just two of its last seven. In this run of games Nathan Buckley’s men generally moved the ball with greater precision, attacked more boldly and kept their defensive structures. Of course, it wasn’t perfect, but a relatively strong end to the season meant the club won half-a-game more than last year. Brodie Grundy had an impressive year in the ruck, while the emergence of Tom Phillips bodes well for the future. Scott Pendlebury found plenty of the ball, as did Adam Treloar but without the polish of his captain. Jeremy Howe was a highlights reel at halfback but also added substance to his game.

What went wrong
It became clear very early in the season that Collingwood would not play finals in 2017. It was not necessarily through lack of effort, but rather a combination of skill and by extension personnel. Whether it was tactics or the players that were trying to implement them is up for debate, but the Magpies often appeared slow and clumsy offensively. Ever increasing pressure on Buckley did not help things and nor did injuries to Jamie Elliott and a worrying over-reliance on Darcy Moore in the front half. Chris Mayne’s continued presence in the VFL heaped more pressure on the coach and recruiting staff, while Daniel Wells was always going to be fighting an uphill battle after arriving at the club from North Melbourne worryingly out of shape.

What they need
Some Collingwood fans would say a new coach. Others would say a new president and recruiting staff. But from an on-field perspective the Pies desperately need to find a halfback who can break the lines and a forward to ease the burden on Moore. What Collingwood truly lacks is some run and polish. A fit Wells somewhat addresses these needs, but another one or two additions would not hurt.

What time is it on the premiership clock
4pm — Nobody really knows where Collingwood is at. Perhaps they over-estimated their list? Or maybe things just didn’t go their way. Regardless, the Pies are still a fair distance from challenging for a flag despite a highly rated midfield.