Collingwood defeated Carlton 14.6 (90) to 10.9 (69) on Saturday, extending their dominance over the Blues to 14 wins in the last 16 meetings. The loss keeps Carlton from securing an AFL wildcard spot, a goal that seemed within reach under interim coach Josh Fraser.
Collingwood's defensive pressure stifles Carlton
Collingwood's relentless pressure was a recurring theme throughout the match. Blues players often found themselves in space, only to be swarmed by Magpies. This defensive intensity, personified by Billy Frampton, gave Carlton no room to breathe. Frampton, who started the 2025 season in the reserves, has emerged as a reliable key defender, filling the gap left by Darcy Moore and Jeremy Howe.
Carlton had shown improvement under Fraser, shedding the sense of doom that previously hung over the club. However, they needed this win more than any other under the new coach and were not up to the task. The Blues had rotten luck, being down two rotations and lacking ruck options, but Collingwood's pressure exposed their shortcomings.
Collingwood's limitations and strengths
Despite their limitations, Collingwood relies on the same strengths that have defined Craig McRae's tenure: a passionate supporter base, veteran leader Scott Pendlebury, midfielder Nick Daicos, and an abnormally high pressure game. The Magpies have played nine games decided by 10 points or fewer this season, losing four and drawing one. While they have not caught the same breaks as in previous years, they remain disciplined, efficient, and well-organized.
Daicos stated this week that the team considers themselves genuine premiership contenders, but even with multiple players of his caliber, they may not reach that level. Collingwood faces a tough run ahead against Adelaide, Geelong, Hawthorn, and Brisbane. However, if any of those teams are slightly off, the Magpies are capable of capitalizing.
Carlton's ongoing struggle with Collingwood
Carlton continues to try new approaches, take risks, and develop young talent under Fraser. However, Collingwood remains a psychological barrier. The Blues have not beaten the Magpies consistently for over a decade, and this loss underscores the gap between the two clubs. As the article notes, Collingwood is the doorman for AFL teams considering themselves wildcard material, showing them exactly where they stand.
