Supporters will be hoping the Magpies can reflect on their errors and recover with renewed strength as they aim for a spot in the finals.
Collingwood’s 2025 AFL season has gotten off to a disastrous start, as the
Magpies suffered a shocking defeat in their season opener to a low-ranked
opponent, leaving their finals aspirations in jeopardy. In a match that was
supposed to be a statement win to set the tone for the season, the Magpies
instead found themselves on the wrong side of a stunning upset, raising
serious questions about their readiness for the challenges that lie ahead.
The loss has sent shockwaves through the Collingwood camp, as many were
expecting the team to build on their strong 2024 campaign, which saw them
finishing near the top of the ladder. However, the Magpies’ uncharacteristic
performance has left fans and experts alike questioning whether they are
equipped to make a genuine push for the finals this season.
An Unpredictable Start.
The AFL season opener was expected to be a smooth affair for Collingwood,
with most pundits tipping them to comfortably beat their lowly-ranked
opponents. But from the first bounce, it was clear that something was off with
the Magpies. Their normally disciplined game plan faltered, and they found
themselves consistently outplayed by a team that had been written off as one
of the competition’s lesser lights.
Despite an early lead, Collingwood’s inability to convert opportunities and an
alarming lack of defensive structure allowed their opponents to claw their way
back into the game. The Magpies struggled with contested possession,
marking, and clearances—fundamental areas that are crucial to their high-
pressure style of play. This loss not only left a bitter taste but also raised
concerns about the team’s mental toughness and whether they had the
resilience to recover from such a shock.
Lack of Intensity and Poor Decision-Making.
Collingwood’s lack of intensity throughout the match was evident. They
appeared sluggish and uninspired, allowing their opponent to dominate the
tempo and play with greater urgency. The midfield, typically the engine room
of the Magpies, was outclassed by the opposition, which won nearly every
contested ball and gained the upper hand in the clearance battle.
The lack of discipline and poor decision-making also stood out as significant
contributors to Collingwood’s downfall. Uncharacteristic errors in both attack
and defense led to turnovers and easy goals for their opponents. With players
often opting for risky passes or failing to execute basic skills, the Magpies
seemed to lose their cohesion as the match wore on, which allowed the
opposition to capitalize on their mistakes.
Coach Craig McRae was visibly frustrated by his team’s performance, and
while he took responsibility for the defeat, it was clear that the players would
have to take a long, hard look at themselves after such a shocking result.
McRae’s typically positive and upbeat approach seemed to falter, as the weight
of the loss started to sink in for the coaching staff and players alike.
Injuries and Fatigue Add to the Woes.
To make matters worse, Collingwood was hit with injuries during the match,
further derailing their hopes of mounting a comeback. Key players were forced
off the ground, and some players appeared fatigued as the game wore on,
compounding their already lackluster performance. This combination of
injuries and a depleted squad put Collingwood at a distinct disadvantage,
especially when they were desperately trying to stay in touch with their
opponent.
While injuries are part and parcel of any AFL season, the timing couldn’t have
been worse for the Magpies. With their finals hopes on the line, the team will
need to dig deep and find ways to bounce back from this painful loss.
Looking Ahead: Can Collingwood Recover?
For Collingwood, this defeat represents a massive setback in their quest to
make the finals in 2025. The loss to a team that was considered a “gimme”
game now looms large as a missed opportunity to establish early momentum
for the season. However, it’s not all doom and gloom for the Magpies. The
season is long, and there is still plenty of time for the team to recover from this
shock defeat.However, it’s not all doom and gloom for the Magpies. The
season is long, and there is still plenty of time for the team to recover from this
shock defeat.
But the Magpies will need to address several critical issues in the coming
weeks. They must find a way to regain their intensity and discipline, and their
midfield will need to lift to provide more support for the forwards and defense.
Injuries, too, will need to be managed carefully to avoid further disruptions to
the team’s structure.
Collingwood’s finals hopes are certainly still alive, but if this loss is any
indication, they will need to find their best form quickly if they are to remain
in the hunt for a top-eight finish. The coming weeks will be a true test of their
character, and how they respond to this shock defeat could define their entire
season. Fans will be hoping that the Magpies can learn from their mistakes
and bounce back stronger than ever as they set their sights on a finals berth.
