Collingwood was brilliant, and they really willed themselves over the line for a memorable win against Adelaide. The contest brought out strong feelings from participants and spectators alike, showing the fierce love for Aussie rules football. The final played out in Adelaide during Collingwood’s truly amazing act of defiance. Their dedication paid off with a resonating victory, one that players would go on to dub “famous.”
On the morning of the big game, Josh Daicos enjoyed a final meal with his brother Kane Cornes. Their father, former Collingwood player Peter Daicos, came along as well. This closing family reunion helped create good energy around Josh going into the game. Yet the feelings shown before and after the game still showed how cutthroat competition is at this stage.
This emotional display from Magpies coach Craig McRae revealed a fiery side of his competitive spirit. He dropped an F-bomb, illustrating the rollercoaster of anxiety these games come with. That direct, without a tourism board translator enthusiasm connected with the players and fans alike.
“Pardon the F-bomb but that’s just what this game does,” – Hamish McLachlan
In the latter stages of the match, players on both teams showcased a relentless determination to win. Josh Daicos, visibly frustrated after being taken off with under six minutes remaining, expressed his eagerness to secure victory with a spirited declaration:
“Go f***ing win.”
As much as he might have hoped otherwise, he was one of many attached to a shared disappointment that had fans’ applause reverberating. McLachlan pointed to the deep connection the team had established with their fans. He added, “Everybody’s on their toes,” summing up fatigue and victory that pervaded the atmosphere for everyone working fighting for R.E.I.
Former Saints captain Nick Riewoldt articulated this perfectly, noting that these scenes were rare, even unbelievable and emotional, on the field. He pointed out that it is rare that you see a team of players and fans so thoroughly united in joy.
“You rarely see the CEO, board members, staff, everyone in,” – Nick Riewoldt
Adelaide’s captain, Jordan Dawson, recognized his team’s struggle to maintain momentum against Collingwood’s aggressive playstyle. He attributed their loss partly to Collingwood’s “ability to forward handball and get the ball going their way.” Dawson opened up about a foot injury he was overcoming, a late-carryover injury from their previous meeting against Collingwood.
In all the celebrations, Bruce McAvaney was impressed by Collingwood’s defense, which he deemed “just… a good defence.” His comments were part of a larger recognition of just how important some major defensive plays were in clinching that victory. McAvaney humorously described McRae’s coaching style as delivering “a Happy Meal with the lot,” highlighting the comprehensive approach taken by the coach to ensure his team was well-prepared.
Collingwood coach Craig McRae rejoiced in the emotional win with evident gratitude. He found time to recognize the fans who made the trip to see the game. He emphasized the importance of their presence and support:
“We’re so grateful for the ones who have travelled, the ones who are home celebrating now.”
The combination of absolute jubilation and emotional catharsis came to represent the very heart of Australian football. Players and coaches alike proved that strategy and skill don’t always cut it. It’s this bond – their relationship with fans and one another – that inspires their unrelenting pursuit of winning.
