Collingwood faced a challenging match against the Western Bulldogs at the MCG on March 21, 2025, which was not just crucial for points but also marked a historic celebration for the Bulldogs' 100th anniversary.
The game began with a dramatic turn when Reef McInnes of Collingwood injured his knee in the opening minutes. As he attempted to contest a mark, McInnes immediately hobbled off the field, unable to put weight on his right leg. Medical staff quickly tended to him, and it was reported that he could fear a serious ACL injury, which, if confirmed by scans, could spell the end of his season.
“He was in a lot of pain, could not put any weight on it as he came from the ground,” said commentator Matthew Richardson during the coverage of the game, shedding light on the severity of the incident.
As the Bulldogs celebrated their centenary, Sam Darcy put them on the board first, scoring a goal after receiving a free kick for a tackle against Collingwood's captain, Darcy Moore. The Bulldogs established a lead of 22-16 at the first break, thanks to goals from Darcy, Laitham Vandermeer, and Lachlan McNeil. However, Collingwood was quick to respond, with Lachie Schultz and Daniel McStay each netting a goal of their own.
The game saw both teams trading blows throughout the first half, with some impressive individual performances emerging. Nick Daicos and Scott Pendlebury stood out for Collingwood, with Daicos gathering eleven touches and Pendlebury contributing eight by the first quarter’s end.
In the second quarter, the Bulldogs extended their lead, although Collingwood fought back to take the lead briefly before halftime. The close nature of the contest was reflected in the score, with the Bulldogs leading 43-38 at the halftime break. Sam Darcy continued his dominance, kicking two key goals and totalling ten disposals and five marks.
Despite an impressive first half from the Bulldogs, the Pies made headway in the second half, with Beau McCreery's and Lachie Schultz's goals contributing to Collingwood regaining the upper hand. As the third quarter progressed, Steele Sidebottom, playing in his 308th game alongside Scott Pendlebury, showcased his experience by pushing the Pies back in front with a right-foot snap.
As time ticked down in the quarter, Rhylee West of the Bulldogs responded fiercely, curling in a set shot to bring the Bulldogs within striking distance at 59-57.
However, amid the excitement, the seriousness of McInnes's injury loomed large. Reports confirmed fears that he had sustained an ACL injury, casting a shadow over Collingwood's resurgence as players began contemplating the potential impact of McInnes's loss on the season.
Late in the third quarter, the Bulldogs seemed poised to take control back, but Collingwood held their nerve, keeping pressure on their opponents throughout the match. As the whistle blew, both sides displayed resilience, battling through a highly competitive and emotional game, especially for the Bulldogs as they honored their historical significance.
The game not only highlighted individual brilliance but also underscored the challenges faced by teams early in the season. With names such as Tom Liberatore and Sam Darcy leading the Bulldogs and Collingwood’s Nick Daicos and Scott Pendlebury playing crucial roles, the stage was set intricately. The audience at the MCG witnessed a thrilling contest, filled with promising talent, historical significance, and intense rivalries, as both teams strive to secure a crucial win amidst a remarkable backdrop of a monumental occasion for the Western Bulldogs.
