BTouchy Daicos call pivotal as rival ‘gets in his head’ but Pies pull off great escape… again — 3-2-1
In a match packed with tension, drama, and late heroics, it was a contentious moment involving Nick Daicos that proved to be a major turning point—one that nearly unraveled the Collingwood Magpies’ plans. Yet again, the Pies managed to claw their way out of trouble, pulling off a thrilling escape that has become their trademark this season.
The incident in question came midway through the final quarter, with Daicos at the centre of a fiery exchange. What looked like a soft free kick in his favour was met with immediate protests from opposition players and left commentators divided. Some saw it as justified under today’s interpretations; others believed it shifted momentum unfairly.
Whatever the opinion, it was clear the moment rattled Daicos—normally unshakable under pressure. His direct opponent had spent the majority of the night applying physical and verbal pressure, clearly trying to disrupt the young star’s rhythm. And for a brief period, it looked like the tactic might pay off. Daicos appeared uncharacteristically rushed in a few key moments, misplacing handballs and losing his usual clean composure.
“He got in his head—no doubt about it,” said one veteran analyst post-match. “That’s something we haven’t seen often with Nick, but full credit to the opponent for the mental battle.”
Still, champions respond, and Daicos did just that in the dying stages. With the game hanging in the balance, he surged back into form with several crucial disposals, including a daring kick inside 50 that set up what would be the match-winning goal. In trademark Collingwood fashion, the Pies weathered the storm and surged home late, snatching a victory many thought had slipped from their grasp.
It was the kind of match Collingwood fans have become all too familiar with—heart-stopping, gritty, and ultimately rewarding. Despite not being at their best, the team showed resolve when it mattered most, coming from behind yet again to maintain their place among the top contenders.
Coach Craig McRae acknowledged the close call in his post-match comments. “We weren’t perfect tonight, far from it,” he said. “But this group doesn’t quit. Even when things aren’t going our way—on the scoreboard or with the whistle—they keep fighting.”
The 3-2-1 votes reflected the wild swings of the game:
**3 votes** – **Jordan De Goey**: Dominant through the midfield, he was the spark that ignited the final push.
**2 votes** – **Darcy Moore**: Imposing down back, his leadership and intercept marking kept Collingwood in the hunt.
**1 vote** – **Nick Daicos**: Despite the dip mid-match, his ability to recover and influence the outcome underlines why he remains a rising superstar.
