Brisbane Lions dominate West Coast Eagles in AFL clash
Collingwood continued its strong late-season form with a 14.6 (90) to 10.9 (69) victory over Carlton at the MCG, recording a fifth consecutive AFL win and strengthening its prospects of securing at least a wildcard finals position.
Nick Daicos starred with a match-high 36 disposals, while Tim Membrey kicked three important goals as the Magpies consistently responded whenever Carlton threatened to take control.Josh Daicos also played a significant role despite revealing after the match that he injured his ankle within the opening minute.
After receiving treatment, he returned to finish with 23 disposals and said the side enjoys proving its critics wrong as it approaches every remaining match with a finals-like mentality.
Carlton briefly claimed the lead midway through the third quarter after kicking three unanswered goals, but Collingwood quickly regained momentum and maintained the advantage for the remainder of the contest.
The Blues' task became considerably harder after losing key forward Harry McKay early with a knee injury following accidental contact with teammate Sam Walsh.Midfielder Adam Cerra was also ruled out later with hamstring tightness, further limiting Carlton's chances.
Captain Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh and Jagga Smith all worked hard for the Blues, but the team struggled to convert inside-50 opportunities and lacked consistent support across the ground.Interim coach Josh Fraser acknowledged his side's inefficiency in attack and said losing McKay disrupted the team's structure.The defeat marked Carlton's second straight loss after previously winning seven consecutive matches under Fraser.Meanwhile, Collingwood's confidence continues to build ahead of a highly anticipated clash with Adelaide.