Collingwood opens its 2018 account with victory over their old rivals Carlton
TODAY’S LINE-UP: Matthew Lloyd, Tony Shaw, Mick Warner, Dwayne Russell, Bruce Eva, and Nat Edwards.
Photo: Julian Smith / AAP
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BELOW
- Collingwood CEO Mark Anderson
- AFL boss Gillon McLachlan
- Carlton coach Brendon Bolton
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FULL TIME
Collingwood has opened its 2018 account with a convincing win over Carlton.
Two late goals to the Blues cut the final margin to 24 points but the Pies were never really threatened.
Josh Thomas kicked a career-high five goals, while Steele Sidebottom (35 disposals, 3 goals) was outstanding.
But Sidebottom could be in trouble after slinging an opponent in a tackle.
Collingwood president Eddie McGuire told 3AW Football Thomas has worked hard to get back into AFL form.
“I thought he was about to break through before he got rubbed out,” Eddie said.
“To kick five goals was a wonderful return for his efforts.”
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HALF TIME
The Magpies lead by six goals at the main break.
Carlton burst out of the blocks, kicking the first three goals in 14 minutes.
But it’s been all Collingwood since then, booting nine unanswered since then.
Matthew Lloyd said the Blues shouldn’t have eight fewer tackles when the Pies have had 63 more disposals.
“That’s an attitude thing,” Lloydy said.
Tony Shaw said Levi Casboult is “playing for his career”.
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AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan joined the 3AW box before the game.
In a wide-ranging interview, Gillon touched on:
- A wildcard round before finals
- The new drug Mick Warner revealed is being used by 40 to 50 AFL players
- Holding the ball rules
- Footy in Tasmania
- And many, many more topics
There was also the awkward moment where he forgot Dwayne Russell’s name! (Note – it’s right at the start.)
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Collingwood CEO Mark Anderson joined the 3AW commentary box before the game.
He said the penny has dropped for Jordan de Goey.
“Jordan, to his credit, sucked it up,” Anderson said.
“He went away (and) did his time… we’re looking forward seeing him demonstrating that he has learnt.
“He has turned the corner and the message has hit home.”
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Carlton coach Brendon Bolton spoke to 3AW Football before the game.
He said his players are up for the fight tonight, but the Pies will be too.
“We thought they showed real effort against a quality side last week,” Bolton said.
“We’re going to have to bring the contest tonight.”
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THE BUILD-UP
This is it. This is what footy was made for.
Two traditional rivals desperate for a win under Friday night lights at the MCG.
Does it get any better than this?!
To suit the occasion, 3AW Football has assembled a bumper commentary team to bring you every bump, tackle, and goal.
Don’t miss a minute of this HUGE game with the best team in football!
BELOW: Follow live commentary highlights throughout the weekend.