Collingwood have reminded the AFL of their credentials with a composed and disciplined performance in the opening round clash against St Kilda at the MCG. Despite a turbulent off-season and pre-season doubts from pundits, the Magpies produced a clinical display to spoil the Saints’ highly anticipated home game.
St Kilda had talked up the occasion all summer, with a record home-and-away crowd, high-profile recruits, and the league’s best-paid player. But Collingwood’s system, built on frontal pressure, quick hands and fast feet, proved too much. The Saints’ forward line, still raw and occasionally headless, struggled with fumbles and poor decision-making, costing them dearly.
The Daicos brothers and veteran Scott Pendlebury were instrumental, amassing 77 disposals between them. However, Dan Houston was a standout, finally looking comfortable in the Collingwood system after a subdued 2025. He roamed forward, back and through the midfield, showcasing the assured skill he displayed at Port Adelaide.
St Kilda coach Ross Lyon acknowledged the defeat as a wake-up call, noting that some of his best players had patchy games and the new-look side will need time to gel. The Saints squandered attacking opportunities, often kicking straight into Collingwood’s hands.
The opening round also saw a crackerjack game at the Gabba, where the Western Bulldogs defeated Brisbane in a high-quality contest. The Bulldogs showed improved defensive composure, a stark contrast to their 2025 performances, and the win clearly meant a lot to coach Luke Beveridge and his players.
