The Adelaide Crows have started their 2026 season with a strong 14-point victory over the Collingwood Magpies at the MCG.
After a powerful third quarter, Adelaide almost put the game out of reach. However, Collingwood showed their fighting spirit under coach Craig McRae, making a late push before the Crows finally secured the 13.15 (93) to 11.13 (79) win. This marks Adelaide’s first victory against Collingwood at the MCG since 2014.
Magpies Struggle with Undersized Defence
Collingwood entered the match with major problems in their backline. Captain Darcy Moore, veteran Jeremy Howe, and Reef McInnes were all missing from the team.
This left Collingwood’s smaller defenders to fight against Adelaide’s tall forwards. Isaac Quaynor and Brayden Maynard had to defend much taller players like Darcy Fogarty and Taylor Walker. Meanwhile, Billy Frampton struggled to stop Riley Thilthorpe, who kicked three important goals for the Crows.
Star Players Step Up
Adelaide controlled much of the game, especially in the first half. Josh Worrell was a standout player early on, picking up 27 disposals and taking nine important marks to stop Collingwood’s attacks. Wayne Milera also had a huge game, gathering 34 disposals and driving the ball forward.
For Collingwood, Dan Houston continued his great form with 32 touches, and star player Nick Daicos fought hard all day. Daicos finished the game with 33 disposals, 776 meters gained, and two goals, making him a strong candidate for Brownlow votes.
The Turning Point and Late Drama
Adelaide looked sharper from the start, while Collingwood struggled to score inside their forward 50 in the first half. The Magpies managed to kick four goals in the second quarter, but they all came from general play rather than set shots.
The game broke open right after half-time. Adelaide scored the first six times in just eight minutes, including three quick goals. Collingwood looked defeated, but they fought back early in the fourth quarter. Goals from Lachie Schultz and Jamie Elliott gave the home crowd hope.
When Tim Membrey kicked a goal halfway through the final quarter, Collingwood was only two goals behind. However, a costly 50-meter penalty against Collingwood allowed Darcy Fogarty to kick a final goal, ending the Magpies’ comeback and sealing the win for Adelaide.
Final Score
- Collingwood: 0.1 | 4.8 | 6.10 | 11.13 (79)
- Adelaide: 2.3 | 5.5 | 11.10 | 13.15 (93)
Top Goal Scorers:
- Collingwood: Steele (2), Schultz (2), Elliott (2), N. Daicos (2)
- Adelaide: Thilthorpe (3), Fogarty (2), Cumming (2)
Crowd: 62,482 at the MCG
