In a dramatic AFL clash at the MCG, Collingwood faced West Coast in a match that will be remembered for Scott Pendlebury setting a new games record and a series of late-game injuries that overshadowed the result.

The Magpies were strongly led by Nick Daicos, who produced a standout performance with 32 disposals and a crucial late goal that helped steady his side as the Eagles mounted a late surge.

Pendlebury was influential through the midfield, helping drive Collingwood forward during key passages of play as the match tightened in the final quarter.

West Coast fought hard to close the margin, with Jobe Shanahan and Elliot Yeo contributing important goals that brought the Eagles within striking distance.The tension escalated in the final minutes when Jamie Elliott suffered a serious-looking knee injury after landing awkwardly while contesting a mark.He was stretchered from the field to a standing ovation from the 90,028-strong crowd, adding a sombre tone to an otherwise high-intensity contest.Earlier, Darcy Moore also exited the game due to a hamstring issue, leaving Collingwood undermanned.Despite the Eagles’ pressure, Daniel McStay and others helped Collingwood respond at key moments, maintaining a narrow buffer late in the match.The contest also formed part of a broader AFL round that saw Geelong defeat Sydney 15.17 (107) to 12.8 (80), strengthening their premiership credentials.

Overall, Collingwood’s victory was significant but bittersweet, defined as much by injury concerns as by Pendlebury’s milestone achievement and Daicos’ brilliance.