Collingwood and Essendon played out a gripping draw on Anzac Day, the second time the teams have shared the points on this hallowed day. The match was a tense and entertaining affair, with both sides having chances to snatch a late win.
Essendon made a lively start to the game, kicking the first four goals through Harrison Jones, Peter Wright, Kyle Langford, and Darcy Parish. Collingwood slowly worked their way back into the contest and eventually drew level late in the second quarter. Jamie Elliott gave the Magpies the lead with a brilliant mark and goal in the third quarter, but Essendon responded with two quick goals to regain the advantage.
The final quarter was a see-sawing battle, with both teams trading blows. Collingwood had a chance to snatch the win with a late set shot from Brody Mihocek, but the young forward pushed his kick wide. Essendon then had a chance to win it themselves, but Langford’s shot from 30 meters out sailed wide to the right.
The draw was a fair result in a game that could have gone either way. Collingwood will be disappointed not to have won after coming from behind, but they will take heart from their spirited performance. Essendon will be pleased to have earned a point against a strong opponent, and they will be looking to build on this performance in the coming weeks.
Essendon’s Zach Merrett was awarded the Anzac Day Medal as the best player on the ground. The Bombers skipper was outstanding in the midfield, collecting 33 disposals and laying 10 tackles. He was well supported by Langford, who kicked four goals and took seven marks, and Jones, who kicked three goals.
Collingwood’s best players included Darcy Moore, who was a rock in defense, and Jamie Elliott, who kicked two goals and took a stunning mark in the third quarter. Brodie Grundy was also impressive in the ruck, winning 43 hit-outs.
The draw was the second between the two clubs on Anzac Day, following the inaugural match in 1995. It was also the first draw between the two teams since 2010. The result leaves Collingwood in 15th place on the ladder with a 3-5 record, while Essendon is in 12th place with a 4-4 record.
