I’m not sure if it feels appropriate associating Darcy Moore with dead rock stars, but as we enter Round 23, the Collingwood skipper is definitely under pressure.
With his defence crumbling around him, and a midfield that has seemingly been reluctant to defend in any meaningful way, the Magpies have leaked goals. They have plummeted from what looked like an unassailable position after Round 17, to be staring at the very real possibility of dropping out of the top four. Perhaps they could even miss a home final.
Some have gone so far as to say they could miss the finals, altogether, but I can’t see that occurring.
What I do see occurring is a matchup this weekend that, on paper, looms as the biggest test the Magpie defence will face in the run home. And possibly the straw that breaks the Magpies’ back.
Can they turn it around?
Are they able to combat this hydra in Adelaide Crows colours that inhabits the forward line?
And if so, is this the point they make their stand in 2025?
Meanwhile, Adelaide have found form at the right time, although a lapse against an inspired West Coast Eagles may have caused a few wearing black and white to ponder just how gettable the Crows may be at the moment.
Given their recent history, this game is set to be a blockbuster. As such, it’s important to give it the column inches it deserves.
HB dives into some aspects to keep in mind headed into this game.
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