Collingwood’s Dan Houston endured a challenging night during the team’s 27-point loss to Brisbane, where he was responsible for two significant free kicks that proved pivotal. The match at the Gabba, though, shone a spotlight on Houston’s rough patches. His failure to do so made waves as talking heads wondered whether he was the right fit for the squad looking ahead to the finals.
Houston’s pleasant evening suddenly soured in the dying moments of the match. He then produced a brilliant last-ditch high tackle on Zac Bailey just before three-quarter time that saved a certain try. The anger was palpable as he pleaded his case with the umpire, reliving the horror in slo-mo on the Jumbotron. This would prove to be a major misstep among many that doomed Collingwood’s chances of taking a win.
Houston didn’t stop with just Bailey though, as he snatched Logan Morris down high in the pocket. This decision compounded other blunders he made on that fateful day. Houston, a two-time All-Australian, has struggled to get it going since his off-season move from Port Adelaide. His performances of late haven’t lived up to the hype that fans expected. This year he’s averaging under 17 disposals a game. This is in stark opposition to the 23 disposals he averaged the previous three seasons.
Unfortunately for Houston, it was apparent from the first whistle that this wasn’t going to be their night. His lack of touches — he had just three in the first 45 minutes — was alarming to say the least to pundits and viewers everywhere. Jack Riewoldt highlighted these issues, noting that Houston had not lived up to expectations since joining Collingwood and suggesting that a positional change might be necessary.
“He is not the player that Collingwood thought they were going to get, that attacking half-backer that can roll up into the midfield with his damaging kick.” – Jack Riewoldt
Riewoldt questioned a bit more about Houston’s environmental position with the team as they head into the finals. And of Houston, he predicted that the bayou city may continue to be chosen more often. Based on his performance, he shouldn’t appear in Collingwood’s strongest team.
“I think they’ll play him, but I don’t know if he’s in their best 22.” – Jack Riewoldt
Collingwood’s coaching staff needs to reconsider their approach for deploying Houston. He’d originally been brought in so the team could replace the departed Oscar McInerney, who is out at least a month with a broken back. Despite Houston’s talent and experience, it appears he has yet to adapt to Coach Craig McRae’s desired style of play.
Houston’s dismal performance vs. Brisbane has led to speculation and discussion around his future with the club. As Collingwood looks ahead to a possible final four run, questions over his recent form are mounting. His fans question if he can produce in the biggest game situations.
