Collingwood Coach Reflects on Bold Forward Structure Following Victory
Collingwood head coach Craig McRae has weighed in on his team’s unusual forward formation following their 29-point win over West Coast on Saturday night. The Pies showcased a rarely seen four-tall forward line, featuring debutant Charlie West alongside Brody Mihocek, Tim Membrey, and Dan McStay. The decision was largely influenced by the absence of small forwards Bobby Hill, Beau McCreery, and Lachie Schultz due to personal and injury-related reasons. While the bold setup raised eyebrows, McRae admitted that it was something the team was experimenting with for the first time.
Despite the victory at Marvel Stadium, McRae acknowledged that the team struggled to connect effectively in their forward entries compared to previous games. Reflecting on the numbers, he noted a drop in inside-50 marks — from 18 last round to just 13 this time. The coach emphasized that the club opted for this approach as a way to reward form and effort, especially giving West a chance to debut while still honoring Mihocek’s milestone 150th match. The staff also felt that Membrey had earned his place, and McStay’s flexibility as a backup ruck added depth to the decision.
The matchup was expected to be lopsided in favor of the Magpies, especially considering the gap in ladder positions. However, the Eagles proved to be tougher opposition than anticipated. Their recent form suggested resilience, and they brought that same competitive edge to Marvel Stadium. McRae wasn’t surprised by their fight, crediting West Coast for their continued improvement and discipline over the past month. He reminded his players post-game that the mission was always about securing the four points, not making a statement with style.
Looking ahead, the match marked the end of the AFL’s extended bye rounds, which have spanned five weeks. McRae shared that although there’s no perfect formula for managing rest and performance, having a break benefited his squad. He praised his team for returning from the bye refreshed and noted that they haven’t dropped a game since. The time away from competition, he said, served as a genuine mental and physical reset.
