On Saturday the AFL enjoyed a very historic day, just the third grand final replay in the games history. Unfortunately the match didn’t live up to the hype, with Collingwood defeating St. Kilda convincingly to secure their 15th VFL/AFL premiership. They are now hot on the heels of Carlton and Essendon, who share the record with 16 flags.
The Pies led at every change and demolished the Saints to the tune of 56 points, sparking intense celebrations from their legions of fans around Melbourne. There was a sense of redemption for the boys in black and white, after throwing away a large lead last week and having to settle for a draw. There were no such issues this time around. The Magpies played brilliant, efficient football from the first bounce and the result was never in doubt.
Scott Pendlebury was the best of a great bunch, edging out teenage teammate Steele Sidebottom for the Norm Smith medal, awarded to the best player on the ground. Pendlebury made it clear in his acceptance speech that this is only the beginning, saying winning the flag is “the best feeling I’ve ever had” and he hopes “there’s a few more to come”.
The question before this match was whether both teams could mentally and physically stand the pressure after last weeks epic battle. It was clear from the start that the Saints were not themselves, making uncharacteristic mistakes which proved fatal. Captain Nick Riewoldt played a rare off game, constantly making blunders. 21 year old Collingwood defender Nathan Brown played a spectacular game, shutting skipper Riewoldt out of the contest.
Where to now for the Saints? Their premiership window is certainly still open, with supreme talent all over the ground and a burning desire to succeed. But after consecutive heartbreaking defeats on the biggest day in football, the mental pressure is mounting on this club. Their premiership drought is well documented (the clubs one and only flag coming in 1966) and this fact only adds to the burden they already carry. Season 2011 will say a lot about St. Kida’s resolve, how they bounce back in the home and away season is vital as they move into the future.
As for the Magpies, you would be very brave to say that this is the end for the rampaging men from Collingwood. With a talented young list, there are similarities between them and the all-conquering Geelong side of ’07-’09. If this playing group can stick together and not let success get to their heads, they have a very good chance to build a strong dynasty and dominate the league in the coming years.
So, this concludes a riveting and historic season of AFL football. We now look forward to season ’11, when we welcome the new side, the Gold Coast Suns to the league. These are exciting times for the AFL and its fans.