A midfield mauling greeted fans at Marvel Stadium last week on Friday night as the Bulldogs romped to victory against Collingwood, courtesy of a quick start.
It was clear to see early in the clash that Craig McRae’s midfielders simply didn’t rock up, and the Bulldogs midfielders tore it up to all feature in the side’s best.
Bailey Smith, Jack Macrae, Tom Liberatore and Marcus Bontempelli all had more of the football than any Magpie on the park, while Josh Dunkley also featured heavily with 24 touches.
All in all, they were responsible for a contested possession shellacking handed to Collingwood, the Dogs triumphing that statistic 146-106.
That was combined with clear differentials in clearances (43-27), inside 50s (68-46), and team disposals (437-323), with McRae’s men simply unable to win a hardball for much of the first half.
Skipper Scott Pendlebury being a late out certainly didn’t help, however it exposed the relative lack of depth in Collingwood’s midfield mix. Jack Crisp impressed, but Jordan De Goey’s struggles in the game have been well noted, Taylor Adams lacked damage and Steele Sidebottom featured largely on a wing.
It hasn’t been an isolated issue either. Since Round 4, Collingwood has won the contested possession count just once, while the only time they triumphed in clearances was in their loss to the Eagles.
The Magpies’ midfield won’t be the first put to the sword by the Bulldogs' on-ball mix this year, but the trend is worrying.
Thanks to TopSport.
Is Gambling a problem for you? Call Gamblers Help on 1800 858 858 or your local state gambling helpline. Gamble responsibly.