Essendon legend Tim Watson has praised the Collingwood fans for the atmosphere they created at the MCG on Sunday.
More than 65,000 supporters showed up for the clash with Adelaide which the Magpies eventually won by two points in yet another thriller.
Of course, it’s not the only time the Pies have showed up in 2023.
The club leads the way this season with an average of more than 62,000 for home attendances, but Watson was still taken aback by the support they showed their team on the weekend.
“I want to say to all the Collingwood fans out there, that Collingwood army is phenomenal,” Watson said on SEN Breakfast.
“They are unbelievable. Just below 66,000 people at the MCG on Sunday, 1pm start, cold, windy, wettish type conditions against an interstate team which doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be the biggest drawing game of a round.
“That is just a phenomenal effort from the Collingwood fans.”
Co-host Garry Lyon agreed with Watson’s sentiment, but did also want to acknowledge the travelling Crows who turned up.
“I agree it is, because they created a brilliant atmosphere,” he said.
“Adelaide fans travel too so let’s give them (some credit).”
Watson added: “I was driving through the city on Sunday and I saw a lot of Adelaide fans, they came across.
“But the number of Collingwood fans that go to games week in, week out, doesn’t matter what the conditions are, they travel interstate. We just take it for granted.
“Every now and then we need to pause and give them their flowers.”
Lyon says it is a joy to watch Craig McRae’s Pies right now given their propensity to be involved in a blockbuster and a cliffhanger.
“Well said by you,” Lyon added.
“And it goes both ways because why wouldn’t you go and watch Collingwood if you’re a Collingwood fan right now?
“If you’re a Collingwood supporter and you’re not getting along to watch their games then you’re missing out on the best show in town. 11 out of 15 times they’ve been behind at three-quarter time and they’ve climbed over the top of teams.
“It’s just amazing. The game on Sunday was a joy to be there and watch and get involved in.”
The Magpies sit aloft the AFL ladder with a 12-2 record and a healthy percentage of 132.4.
They next meet Gold Coast at Heritage Bank Stadium on Saturday where the crowd is likely to be far less than they are used to.