The Anzac Day Showdown: Collingwood vs. Essendon
Okay, AFL fans, buckle up! The Anzac Day clash between Collingwood and Essendon is *always* a massive deal, but this year? It's shaping up to be epic. Seriously, with both teams on fire, it's going to be an absolute cracker. Collingwood's currently topping the ladder, looking unstoppable, but Essendon's been on a roll lately, and they're hungry for a win. Let's dive into what makes this matchup so huge.
A Look at the VFL Warm-up
Before the main event at the MCG, Collingwood's VFL team takes on Essendon at ETU Stadium. It's not just a regular VFL game; thirteen Magpies who play in the AFL are suiting up! I'm particularly keeping an eye on Will Hayes – remember his 14 disposals and three goals in Round 4? And Charlie West, who’s already bagged nine goals in his first three games – the kid's a natural! Coach Andy Otten's shuffled the VFL deck a bit, bringing in Mason Cox and Chad Mulvogue, but unfortunately, Finlay Macrae's out with an injury.
The MCG: It's More Than Just a Game
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Anzac Day clash at the MCG—it's become a tradition! It's not just about the footy; it's about remembering and honoring those who served. And this year, the stakes are high. Collingwood's undefeated streak is on the line, and while Essendon’s been playing really well, it's hard to bet against the Magpies, especially with Nick Daicos, who’s practically a shoo-in for the Brownlow. Plus, the game's on 7mate and 7plus – which is fantastic news for those who can’t make it to the 'G!
Oh, and did I mention that this game marks Jack Crisp’s 244th consecutive AFL game? He's tying legendary Jim Stynes' record – talk about an incredible achievement! Honestly, you couldn't write a better story.
Why You Can't Miss This
This Anzac Day match is a must-see, whether you're at the MCG roaring your lungs out or watching from the comfort of your couch. It’s a massive game with a huge history and a whole lot of emotion. The pre-game ceremony alone is worth tuning in for—it's incredibly moving. But honestly, the whole thing, from the first whistle to the final siren, will be unforgettable. So get your pies ready, grab your mates, and let’s celebrate a legend of a match.
Get ready for an absolute ripper of a game – you won't want to miss it!
