The latter, Collingwood Magpies, totally crushed the St Kilda Saints, with an overwhelming victory of 16.12 (108) — 11.8 (74). With this commanding victory, they wrote their names on top of the AFL ladder in indelible ink. Collingwood had a terrific bounce back win, taking their points total to 48 from 14 games. Young star Nick Daicos was arguably best on ground, he really held his team together and was pretty important in their success.
Nick Daicos played a huge role in Collingwood’s victory, recording 30 disposals, five clearances and nine inside 50s. Despite being closely tagged by Marcus Windhager for much of the night, Daicos managed to make significant contributions as the game progressed. He demonstrated his remarkable talent to evade defensive pressure. With one terrific shot, he knocked the ball up and over into the goal.
“He was unbelievable tonight.” – [source]
Key Contributions from Daicos
Daicos’ breakout effort featured no better evidence of his prodigious skill and will than his play establishing a highlight-reel goal. At a critical juncture in the match, he wisely got open and his teammates found him. As he was being brought down, he booted it with everything he had. The outcome was an unbelievable goal that got the crowd buzzing and ignited his team’s confidence.
His strong performance certainly did not escape the notice of his coach. The praise from the coaching staff indicates that Daicos is becoming a key figure for Collingwood as they push for further success this season. Even with the constant shadow of Windhager, Daicos was still able to make positive impacts on the game.
Team Dynamics and Challenges
Collingwood were up against a focused St Kilda team who made the Pies earn each score. Collingwood’s captain, Darcy Moore, admitted his side saw the big challenge from the Saints on the field. As he said, “They sure made us earn that.” Beyond recognizing the competitive nature of the game, this sentiment demonstrates the fight and resilience on display from both teams.
That adaptability, resilience and mettle to find a way in tough circumstances was evident again in the matches they’ve won four of their last five. The synergy among players like Daicos, Scott Pendlebury, and Steele Sidebottom creates numerous opportunities even when one player is heavily marked.
“Nick generates the most chatter, but even when he gets tagged, Pendles, (Steele) Sidebottom and Ned Long it opens up opportunities for them,” – [source]
Looking Ahead
Collingwood is continuing full steam ahead with their campaign. That confidence was recently complemented by a surprise victory against St Kilda, lifting spirits and affirming their newfound status as legitimate challenger to run rampant on the league. How Nick Daicos goes will be crucial as they try and hold onto their slim lead atop the ladder.
