As the 2024 AFL season nears its conclusion, tonight’s match between Melbourne and Collingwood at the MCG carries high stakes and deep emotions for both teams. For Collingwood, the reigning premiers, this game is a fight for survival—a final chance to keep their faint finals hopes alive. For Melbourne, it’s a matter of pride and finishing the season on a high note after a year that didn’t quite live up to expectations.
Collingwood: Fighting Until the End
Collingwood enters this game with their backs against the wall. They need not only a win but a significant percentage boost and favorable results from other matches in Round 24 to have any hope of securing a top-eight finish. While the odds are stacked against them, the Magpies have shown time and time again that they are a team that thrives under pressure.
Last weekend’s Grand Final rematch against Brisbane was a testament to their never-say-die attitude. Down by 18 points with less than six minutes on the clock, Collingwood staged a miraculous comeback to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. This resilience has been a hallmark of their season, with the Magpies losing just two of their last 16 matches decided by one goal or less. It’s this fighting spirit that gives them a chance, no matter how slim, to extend their premiership defense into September.
In tonight’s match, the Magpies will look to draw on their success from the King’s Birthday clash earlier this season, where they convincingly defeated Melbourne 89-51, led by Josh Daicos’ standout 34-disposal performance. However, with four changes to their lineup, including the loss of key player Dan McStay, Collingwood will need every player to step up if they are to overcome the Demons once again.
Melbourne: Playing for Pride and Momentum
On the other side, Melbourne has little more than pride to play for, but they’ve shown they are not taking their foot off the pedal. Coach Scott Goodwin made it clear that his team would give their all in the final rounds, and the Demons delivered on that promise last weekend with a dominant 117-63 victory over Gold Coast at Carrara.
Despite a disappointing season that saw them fall short of the high expectations set at the start of the year, Melbourne has remained competitive, even pushing one of the form teams, Port Adelaide, to the brink in a two-point loss a few weeks ago. The Demons have made just one change for tonight’s game, with Bailey Laurie coming in for Tom Sparrow, signaling their intent to maintain continuity and finish the season strong.
A Game of Pride and Passion
While the stakes may differ for these two teams, the intensity and passion on display tonight will be undeniable. Collingwood will be fighting to keep their season alive, while Melbourne will be playing to restore some pride and perhaps set the tone for a better campaign next year. The MCG is set for a classic encounter, where both teams will leave nothing in the tank.
As the final siren approaches, one thing is certain: both the Magpies and the Demons will give their fans a game to remember, regardless of what the ladder says.
