The upcoming AFL grand final at the MCG will feature a clash between Collingwood and Brisbane, and it holds a sense of déjà vu for some fans. The alternative scenarios of a Greater Western Sydney versus Brisbane showdown or a Collingwood versus Carlton clash had been contemplated, but the final matchup between Collingwood and Brisbane is deemed satisfactory.
It has been exactly 20 years since these two clubs last met in a premiership decider, and in 2003, Craig McRae and Justin Leppitsch, now in roles at Collingwood, were part of a Brisbane team that claimed their third consecutive premiership by defeating Collingwood. Now, McRae, in his second season as head coach, is tasked with leading Collingwood to its third premiership since 1958, and for him, it’s strictly business.
While some may view this as a chance for Collingwood to seek revenge for the losses in 2002 and 2003, McRae’s focus is on the task at hand. He recently returned to Brisbane to be inducted into the Lions’ hall of fame and expressed his hope that the Lions would succeed if his Magpies couldn’t. His wish will be fulfilled either way.
Standing in Collingwood’s path to football immortality is a formidable Brisbane side that overcame Carlton at the Gabba. Led by coach Chris Fagan, who is set to become the oldest grand final coach in history at 62, the Lions will enter the match as underdogs according to bookmakers but are quietly confident of securing another grand final victory against Collingwood.
The Lions’ track record at the MCG has not been favorable, with only one win in their last 15 games at the iconic stadium. This MCG “hoodoo” might be a topic of discussion leading up to the grand final, but as grand final day approaches, anything can happen.
The early weather forecast for Saturday favors Brisbane, with sunny and warm conditions resembling Queensland weather. This could play into Brisbane’s hands, given Collingwood’s lack of experience in such conditions throughout the year.
As grand final week unfolds, it wouldn’t be complete without the anticipation of players “racing the clock” to recover from injuries. Collingwood’s Taylor Adams and Brisbane’s Jack Payne will be attempting to prove their fitness, while former Lion Dan McStay is unfortunately ruled out with a knee injury. Brownlow Medal winner Lachie Neale, despite a shoulder injury, is expected to play.
The critical question for the grand final is whether Collingwood’s sturdy defense can contain Brisbane’s potent scoring capabilities. Players like Charlie Cameron, Joe Daniher, and Eric Hipwood will pose challenges for the Magpies, and Collingwood’s defensive unit, led by skipper Darcy Moore, will need to deliver another standout performance.
Brisbane, coming off four consecutive seasons of September failures, is poised for this opportunity, but the ultimate challenge is to secure victory on Collingwood’s home ground on the biggest day of the year.