SUMMARY
Collingwood's resounding upset victory over the previously undefeated Geelong has injected new optimism into the Pies' season. But if the Magpies were under pressure last week to atone for a poor Anzac Day showing, tension will be at fever pitch for their clash with old enemy Carlton. If the Pies are to have any chance of making a run at the top eight, a win over old enemy Carlton is a non-negotiable. And it won't be easy given it will be Collingwood's third game in just 12 days, and the Blues will also be aiming for their third win after a boilover victory of their own against winless Sydney. However, the Pies' improving midfield – enhanced by former Roo Daniel Wells – should have too much power for the Blues in what would provide the Magpie Army with the perfect celebration for the club's 125th birthday.
Follow it LIVE: Magpies v Blues
WHERE AND WHEN: MCG, Saturday, May 6, 2.10pm AEST
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
R15, 2016, Collingwood 8.9 (57) d Carlton 6.9 (45) at the MCG
R7, 2016, Carlton 15.9 (99) d Collingwood 12.12 (84) at the MCG
R19, 2015, Collingwood 16.9 (105) d Carlton 13.9 (87) at the MCG
R5, 2015, Collingwood 18.12 (120) d Carlton 6.9 (45) at the MCG
R15, 2014, Collingwood 13.13 (91) d Carlton 11.10 (76) at the MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Taking the ball inside 50 hasn't been a problem for the Magpies, who are ranked fourth for inside 50s and equal-sixth for marks inside 50. The Blues are 13th and 15th respectively in these categories.
2. The Pies' major problem has been conversion – they are the worst goalkicking team in the AFL, blazing a wasteful 67.88, at a strike rate of just 40.9 per cent. They've kicked more behinds than goals in every game.
3.No team has received fewer free kicks this season than Collingwood's 99 – 35 fewer than the top-ranked Brisbane Lions. The Blues are equal-seventh with 116 frees. However the two clubs have conceded the least frees.
4.The last time these teams met it wasn't a memorable night – in perfect conditions only 14 goals were scored. Pies skipper Scott Pendlebury was best-afield with 34 disposals, eight clearances and a goal.
5. No two teams have played each other more than Collingwood and Carlton. They've met 253 times, with the Blues just holding sway – 126 to 123, with four draws. However, the Magpies have won seven of the past eight.
6. Ex-Giant Adam Treloar's star continues to rise. After three rounds he ranked 19th in the Schick AFL Player Ratings but the blond dynamo has since climbed to a personal best of No.13.
IT'S A BIG WEEK FOR … Nathan Buckley.
Just as it was last week, and the week before that, and … It sounds like a broken record, but nothing short of victory will keep the wolves from the door of the under siege Magpie coach. Buckley's two wins this season – against-the-odds triumphs over Sydney and Geelong – have provided the blueprint for success. The question is: can 'Bucks' rouse his boys to win a game they enter as warm favourites after consecutive short breaks?
PREDICTION: Collingwood by 19 points
