Well Saturday night was disappointing.

I went in with high hopes, but unfortunately the Cats were far too good from the first bounce. Let’s leave that one there.

On to the Pies!!

A quick turn-around means we don’t have long to dwell on Saturday’s game, which I think is a good thing. We’ve always had great matches against the Pies, including the last time we played which was also at the MCG, in a semi-final where the Pies just got over the line by 13 points.

We lose Shuey to that hammy again, but now that we can’t play finals footy, there’s no point in risking him, he’s too good a player!

This is only the second time we’ve played Collingwood on the big Friday night stage, so it’s a chance to give some invaluable experience to our young players.

One area we can hopefully dominate is in the ruck. We’re ranked 2nd in the competition for hit-outs, while the Pies are ranked last. Having said that, Grundy is a real find and has been playing great footy for Collingwood lately. Anyone keeping Darren Jolly out of the team is doing pretty well!

Over the journey we’ve played the Pies 43 times. We’ve won 21 while the Pies have won 20, and one draw, so we’re still ahead…just.

While it’ll be tough to get the win, all I’m looking for from my boys is a strong, four-quarter effort, and to remain competitive for the whole match. The result will look after itself.

I’ll be sitting comfortably, nice and warm, watching the boys from WA, but I’ll be cheering them on like I know all you guys will be too!

See you the following week when we take on the Crows at home!

Love Rick.