Collingwood Magpies have begun their 2025 AFL season with a resounding 91-point victory over Port Adelaide, marking their biggest win under coach Craig McRae and showcasing their revival after last week's disappointing performance.
On March 15, 2025, the Magpies notched up a convincing 21.10 (136) to 6.9 (45) triumph at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), signaling their intent after being run ragged by GWS Giants just six days earlier. The win not only reflects Collingwood's capabilities but also serves as Port Adelaide's heaviest defeat across Coach Ken Hinkley's 275-game tenure.
Among the standout performers was Dan Houston, who had recently switched from Port to Collingwood. Houston, after serving a lengthy suspension, made his much-anticipated debut and delivered impressively with 27 disposals, 10 intercept possessions, and six score involvements. Coach McRae expressed high hopes for Houston’s contribution to the squad, stating, “He’s a great pick-up, a talented player.” McRae continued, “When you have someone come to your club, you have this great optimism about what they’re going to bring. But when they’re actually in your system you go, 'Woah, he's going to make a difference.'”
Other key players included Steele Sidebottom, who recorded 31 disposals, and Patrick Lipinski, who contributed with 24 disposals. Jack Crisp also played his part with 26 disposals. Forward Tim Membrey was exceptionally effective on goal, netting four goals, with teammates Brody Mihocek and Dan McStay following closely with three each. Meanwhile, Nick Daicos rounded out the scoring with 26 disposals and one goal.
Collingwood’s approach was markedly different from their previous outing against GWS, where they struggled to score. This time, they opened the match strong, securing six goals within the first quarter alone and later following it up with seven goals during the third term. With increasing tackle pressure, they dominated both contested possession and clearances from the get-go.
During the post-match analysis, McRae acknowledged the team's internal conversations surrounding their need for resilience. He mentioned, “We had our own internal dialogue of what we wanted to improve on ourselves and let others sit here or there judging us from afar.” He highlighted the pride the team took in their performance, asserting, “We took a step forward tonight.”
On the other end of the field, Port Adelaide’s captain Connor Rozee and Ollie Wines battled against the tide, achieving 35 and 34 disposals, respectively, with Wines also registering 10 clearances. Yet, their efforts were overshadowed as Hinkley expressed disappointment at the performance, stating, “We didn’t play anywhere near like we've been performing in the pre-season and in training.” He added of Collingwood, “They were too physical in the contest and then they were able to beat us badly on turnover.”
The match attracted considerable attention, drawing 63,282 fans to the MCG, buoyed by the promise of competitive footy to kick off the season. The atmosphere was alive as Collingwood fans reveled after their team’s spirited triumph, compared to the disappointing display against GWS. Collingwood’s dominance was showcased not only through goals scored but also their impressive inside-50 advantage, which stood at 65-47.
Brayden Maynard added to the afternoon's excitement, kicking two goals within two minutes during the third quarter. Unfortunately for Houston, one of his spectacular long-range attempts was disallowed, much to the crowd's chagrin, as the umpire was still setting the mark.
Collingwood’s performance set the tone for their season as they strive to fulfill the high expectations set upon them. This emphatic victory against Port Adelaide signals both promise and potential, leaving fans hopeful for what lies ahead this season.
With the momentum gathered from this match, the Magpies will be aiming to build on this success as they continue to navigate through the arduous competition of the AFL season. The team appears rejuvenated and ready to face upcoming challenges confident of their capabilities.