David King hailed Collingwood star Steele Sidebottom after his outstanding performance in their gritty 10-point win over GWS in Saturday night's Semi-Final clash at the MCG.
The Magpies star collected 31 disposals, five clearances, six inside 50s, six score involvements and 446 metres gained in an excellent display against a star-studded Giants midfield.
Ahead of this Friday night’s Preliminary Final blockbuster against Richmond, King is fascinated as to which Tiger will be assigned the role of nullifying the prolific ball-winning ability of Sidebottom.
“I just can’t wait to see what match-up that looks like on Friday night,” King said.
“I’m sure that Steele will go to a wing or if not on-ball, because he has been doing both this year.
“(Kamdyn) McIntosh from Richmond plays that role really well, (Shaun) Grigg can, (Jack) Graham can, so there’s options there.
“That role has become critical to what both Richmond and Collingwood do.”
Nathan Buckley's side contained the potent Giants attack to just 14 scoring shots, with the likes of Jeremy Cameron, Toby Greene and Harry Himmelberg scoring just two goals between them.
King highlighted the enormous work rate of Sidebottom as a key contribution towards a stingy collective defensive effort from the Pies.
“It’s the most organised I’ve seen Collingwood behind the ball,” King added.
“If you can slow that ball-movement down, most defences can stand up.
“GWS only had the 47 inside 50s, only kicked nine goals, so it was a real credit to their wingman getting pack, and Steele Sidebottom was a major part of that.”
Listen to David King's chat on SEN's Whateley with Gerard Whateley in the player below