It was a day of memorable performances at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as Collingwood’s Big Five outshone Essendon in the annual Anzac Day clash. The match, held on April 25, was marked by both the stirring rendition of the New Zealand national anthem by Private Hettie Adams and the exceptional play by Collingwood’s standout players.
Private Hettie Adams, flown in every year for this special occasion, delivered a performance that resonated with the crowd, setting the tone for what was to be a remarkable display by Collingwood. The Big Five—Nick and Josh Daicos, Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, and Jamie Elliott—were instrumental in highlighting the class difference between the two teams.
Collingwood’s Big Five Shine
Despite the absence of Darcy Moore, Collingwood’s key players stepped up to the challenge. Steele Sidebottom, who seems to reserve his best for matches against Essendon, was awarded the Anzac Medal for his outstanding performance. His defensive work, characterized by pressure and half smothers, was a crucial factor in Collingwood’s dominance.
The Daicos brothers were equally impressive, amassing a combined total of 68 possessions. Their play was reminiscent of their father, with their swerves, lateral vision, and resilience under pressure. Nick Daicos, in particular, set the tone with a long-range goal early in the match, showcasing his ability to absorb hits and shake off defenders.
Jamie Elliott, known for his composure on the big stage, finished with five goals despite challenging conditions. His performance was a testament to his skill and determination, particularly against a team like Essendon.
Scott Pendlebury: The Ageless Maestro
Scott Pendlebury’s performance was a masterclass in football intelligence and skill. Often compared to an ageless Silicon Valley innovator, Pendlebury’s ability to read the game and execute precise plays was on full display. His clever maneuvers, including a deft banana kick and a strategic tunnel ball, were pivotal in maintaining Collingwood’s momentum.
“Pendlebury is like the Smooth operator in the Sade song – moving in space with minimum waste.”
His leadership and experience were evident throughout the match, guiding his team with precision and poise, even under pressure from Essendon’s defense.
Essendon’s Resilience and Challenges
While Collingwood’s performance was dominant, Essendon was far from disgraced. The Bombers showed resilience, particularly in the second term, where they managed to win clearances and increase pressure, exemplified by a gang tackle on Nick Daicos. Zach Reid and Jordan Ridley were notable in defense, pulling down crucial goal-saving marks.
Essendon’s brief resurgence, marked by four goals in quick succession, brought the game back to life. However, a stunning goal by Bobby Hill, who overcame a challenging first half, effectively ended their comeback hopes.
The Age of Experience in Football
This match highlighted a growing trend in sports: the value of experience and seasoned players. As sports science and recovery techniques advance, older athletes like Scott Pendlebury continue to thrive. His daily routine, focused on meticulous preparation and recovery, exemplifies the dedication required to maintain peak performance.
“In sports all around the world, improvements in sports science and knowledge of recovery have meant the true greats just keep going.”
Collingwood’s ability to harness the experience of its veteran players, much like Private Hettie Adams’ annual performances, demonstrates their enduring strength and adaptability on the big stage.
As the season progresses, Collingwood’s blend of youthful talent and experienced leadership positions them as a formidable force, capable of competing at the highest level. The Anzac Day clash was a testament to their resilience and skill, leaving fans eager to see how the rest of the season unfolds.
