Tony Shaw of the Magpies
Collingwood’s revered figure, Tony Shaw, has emphasized the need for introspection within the club to address their winless start of 0-3, following a 15-point defeat against St Kilda on Thursday evening.
This marks the first instance in the 21st century and only the second time in the past 29 years that Collingwood has commenced a season with three consecutive losses. The last time this occurred was in 1999, a season where the Pies finished at the bottom of the ladder, securing merely four wins throughout.
The situation immediately raises concerns for Collingwood, with mounting pressure following their disappointing start. Shaw, who led the Pies to victory in the 1990 premiership, is all too familiar with the challenges of post-premiership seasons, having experienced the team’s failure to reach the finals in 1991.
“Hopefully, they can secure a finals berth in 2024,” Shaw expressed to 9News Melbourne on Friday, voicing his apprehension about their chances given the significant setback of three consecutive losses.
“They face Brisbane next, and to start 0-4 historically suggests that winning a flag becomes improbable, but I hope to be proven wrong,” Shaw remarked. “They must confront their challenges and take responsibility for them.”
Meanwhile, Kane Cornes has criticized Collingwood’s lack of effort, describing their performance as “timid” and highlighting their reluctance to engage physically.
“The term ‘soft’ is synonymous with AFL football. While I wouldn’t directly label an AFL player as such, the timid approach was evident,” Cornes expressed on SEN radio on Friday. “That level of criticism is profound for a team. There were numerous instances where Collingwood players appeared hesitant and reticent to initiate contact. They seemed unwilling to endure the pressure.”
Collingwood now prepares to face Brisbane, also winless, in a rematch of the 2023 grand final at the Gabba on Thursday night.
