Collingwood is “a mile away” from flag contention following Saturday’s 56-point loss to Melbourne at the Gabba, according to Garry Lyon.
The depleted Magpies were comprehensively beaten by the Demons kicking just six goals while conceding 100-plus points for the second time this season.
“You asked earlier about premiership (Collingwood's chances), that’s a mile away now,” Lyon told Fox Footy on Saturday.
“They’re still in the eight and they’re not going to give that up. They were my (premiership favourites) early in the year.
“It’s a big challenge for Nathan Buckley and his group now.
"You’re away, there’s no escaping any of this. You’re constantly reminded that you’re not at full strength.”
Collingwood has been hit hard by injury with star trio Jordan De Goey (finger), Jeremy Howe (knee) and Adam Treloar (hamstring) all sidelined for extended periods.
Ben Reid (hamstring) and Brody Mihocek (concussion) has only deepened Collingwood’s injury problems with Magpies coach Buckley concerned with the disconnect between his side’s midfield and forward line.
"We were off tonight, that's as disconnected as we've been," Buckley told reporters post-game.
"We knew this was an important game for us and we dropped it. It puts us in amongst it a little bit and we've got some work to do.”
The seventh-placed Magpies will turn their attention to next Monday’s must-win match against North Melbourne.