Collingwood’s defensive pressure was outstanding

There were a few small defensive second efforts that pretty much summed up Collingwood’s defensive game.

In the first quarter, Ellie Blackburn got a free kick inside 50. She played on and Sharni Layton tackled her and got the well-deserved free kick.

The other was Brit Bonnici’s smother on the wing near Collingwood’s 50, also in the first quarter.

Collingwood had 22 more tackles then the Bulldogs, which was a massive factor in the Pies coming away with the win.

Injuries allowing young Magpies to shine

With the likes of Ash Brazill and Ruby Schleicher going down with season-ending injuries, young Pies such as Sophie Alexander and Ebony O’Dea have been given the chance to come into the team and give it their all.

Players like Alana Porter and Lauren Butler have also been allowed to cement their spot in the team.

Sophie Alexander kicked two goals for the game, Lauren Butler took a few great intercept marks, Ebony O’Dea came away with nine tackles, and Alana Porter did consistently well defensively.

Bulldogs did a lot right, but Magpies were too strong

Bulldogs had a few good plays, particularly in transitioning the ball out of their backline, but Collingwood was just too strong on the day.

Isabel Huntington was a fortress in the Bulldogs’ defence, finishing the game with six strong marks that unfortunately were not reflected by the score line.

Despite her efforts, it was hard to stop Collingwood’s relentless attack when players like Chloe Molloy seemed to be unable to put a foot out of place.

Regrettably for the Bulldogs, the Magpies just dominated the game for all four quarters and were able to come away with a significant and important win.