Collingwood Magpies vs Melbourne Demons | AFL Finals | Qualifying Final Preview

The AFL regular season has come to a close, and it’s time for the finals frenzy to take center stage. Kicking off the postseason action is a high-octane encounter between two powerhouse teams: the Collingwood Magpies and the Melbourne Demons. Anticipated to be a cracker of a match, there’s barely a sliver of daylight between these formidable contenders. Let’s dive into the key factors that could shape this Qualifying Final showdown.

Home Advantage at the MCG

Both teams find themselves on familiar turf at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The Demons boast an impressive 11-2 record at this iconic venue, matched by the equally formidable 11-3 record of the Magpies. This balance of power implies that there’s no inherent advantage for either side in terms of ground dimensions. However, when it comes to crowd support, the Magpies seem to have an edge. Their passionate fan base is expected to turn out in full force, potentially creating an electric atmosphere that could energize the players.

Weather Factors

Weather conditions often play a pivotal role in big matches, and for this clash, rain is in the forecast. Wet conditions can significantly impact gameplay. The Magpies, known for their one-paced midfield, might not be easily outrun in these conditions. However, their fast and slick handballing game could suffer. On the flip side, the Demons’ physically imposing midfielders should thrive in the rain, where contested play reigns supreme. Yet, their strong intercept defenders may face a challenge, as marking becomes a Herculean task in wet weather.

Team Form

Neither team enters this contest in top-notch form, but the Demons seem to have timed their run to perfection. They’ve clinched victory in seven of their last eight outings (though not many were convincing wins) and appear as strong as any team entering the finals campaign. On the other hand, the Magpies faced some struggles towards the end of the season. Injuries and perhaps a drop in motivation due to their secured finals spot with a month to spare could be contributing factors.

Key Matchups to Watch

The Demons boast an enviable lineup of midfield maestros, featuring Max Gawn, Clayton Oliver, Christian Petracca, and Jack Viney. These stars could be the difference-makers in this clash. Additionally, Melbourne’s formidable defensive duo of Steven May and Jake Lever adds an extra layer of strength.

On the flip side, the Magpies will miss the promising Nick Daicos. However, they have a proud history of rising to the occasion when the stakes are high.

Final Thoughts

In terms of sheer talent, the Demons have the edge with their star-studded midfield and solid defensive pillars. It’s entirely possible that they may prove to be too much for the Magpies in this encounter, especially in the absence of Daicos. The Demons appear to offer value in this showdown and could well secure a victory, booking their spot in a home preliminary final.