Early Blow for Collingwood as Pendlebury Suffers Calf Injury

The highly anticipated AFL preliminary final at the MCG began with an intense physical contest,but the match took a meaningful turn early on with a concerning injury to Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury. Pendlebury left the field in the first quarter with a tight calf, replaced by young gun Roan Steele, marking only his fifth AFL game.

The sight of Pendlebury on the bench, visibly disheartened, cast a shadow over the Magpies’ campaign. The injury is widely expected to rule the veteran midfielder out of contention should Collingwood advance to the Grand Final.

Lions Dominate First Quarter After Early Magpies Goal

Collingwood drew first blood with a goal from Mason Cox, awarded a free kick after a blocking call against Brisbane‘s Dayne Zorko.Though, the momentum swiftly shifted in favor of the Lions. Brisbane seized control of the first quarter, capitalizing on the psychological impact of Pendlebury’s absence.

Brisbane coach Chris Fagan’s team deviated from their usual corridor-based attacking strategy, a tactical adjustment that proved highly effective. Josh Dunkley opened the lions’ scoring with a goal following an intercept mark, followed by a free kick converted by Zac Bailey.Logan Morris then soared for a remarkable mark and slotted a goal, and Ty Gallop added another with a quick snap, giving the Lions a commanding lead.

Dunkley Shuts Down Magpies’ Key Playmakers

Brisbane’s defensive efforts were particularly noteworthy, led by Josh Dunkley. Dunkley effectively neutralized the threats posed by Collingwood’s Jordan De Goey and Nick Daicos, preventing either player from igniting a spark for the Magpies. Hugh McCluggage, closely monitored by Collingwood’s Steele Sidebottom, accumulated nine possessions for the Lions, though his impact was limited to 72 metres gained.

Magpies Face Uphill Battle

Collingwood faces a critical need to regroup at quarter-time. Without Pendlebury’s leadership and influence, and trailing significantly, the Magpies must find a way to regain control of the contest or risk seeing their premiership aspirations extinguished.