COLLINGWOOD'S cheer squad was left heartbroken just minutes before the start of the 2018 Grand Final after its banner was ripped apart.

Lifted just moments before the Pies players entered the MCG, the banner split from the left, reading "Magpies Swooping".

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Members of the cheer squad attempted to salvage the situation but were left with little option as the players ran through no banner.

Upon entering the ground, coach Nathan Buckley consoled upset members of the cheer squad. 

It is understood the banner was the biggest the club has ever created. 

Brodie Grundy and Steele Sidebottom were among players to grab part of the banner before lining up for the customary team photo pre-bounce.