Collingwood’s 97-93 loss to the Western Bulldogs has intensified concerns about the club’s direction and overreliance on a small group of senior players.

Despite outstanding performances from Nick Daicos, Scott Pendlebury and Jordan De Goey, who combined for 100 disposals, the Magpies were unable to secure victory and remain stuck in the middle of the AFL ladder with five wins and a draw from 12 matches.

Coach Craig McRae described his side as a ‘work in progress’ and acknowledged they have become a ‘middle of the road’ team, an assessment that contrasts sharply with expectations for a squad that reached a preliminary final last season and regularly fields one of the competition’s oldest and most experienced line-ups.

The article argues that Collingwood’s once-feared ability to win close matches is fading, with the club failing to win four of its past five games decided by less than a goal.

It also highlights concerns about team development, noting that few draft selections since 2019 have become regular senior players apart from Daicos and Beau McCreery.Younger players continue to receive limited opportunities, while the club’s VFL side is struggling and offering little pressure for senior selection.In contrast, the Bulldogs’ willingness to back emerging talent was rewarded.

Young players Will Lewis and Michael Sellwood played decisive roles late in the match, with Lewis kicking a crucial goal and Sellwood taking a game-saving mark in the final minute.

Coach Luke Beveridge defended his philosophy of giving inexperienced players opportunities, arguing that clubs only discover their potential by playing them.

The result leaves the Bulldogs rejuvenated after a difficult period, while Collingwood faces increasing questions about its ageing list, player development, and long-term competitiveness.