Shapes as a critical game for both clubs to keep their seasons on track. Collingwood is expected to win and should win but it will want to do so in a style that suggests it will be more competitive with top four teams. St Kilda has shown it can be competitive against all comers but it is no guarantee to win any game in 2013 with its high number of young players. Collingwood needs support at the stoppages but will resist the temptation to rush anyone back, while the Saints will accept the ebbs and flows that come with having a high cohort of inexperienced players.
WHERE AND WHEN: Etihad Stadium, Friday May 3, 7.50pm
TV AND RADIO: Click here for broadcast guide
LAST FIVE TIMES
GF, 2010, Collingwood 9.14 (68) tied with St Kilda 10.8 (68) at MCG
GF, 2010, Collingwood 16.12 (108) d St Kilda 7.10 (52) at MCG
R11, 2011, Collingwood 16.12 (108) d St Kilda 7.9 (51) at MCG
R21, 2011, Collingwood 14.5 (89) d St Kilda 10.10 (70) at Etihad Stadium
R19, 2012, Collingwood 12.19 (91) d St Kilda 13.7 (85) at MCG
THE SIX POINTS
1. Collingwood defeated St Kilda by six points in round 19 at the MCG last year after leading by 27 at half time. A controversial free kick was awarded to Magpie defender Harry O'Brien in the dying minutes.
2. The Magpies have dominated the Saints recently, winning five of the last six and drawing with the Saints in the 2010 Grand Final
3. Against the Saints, Travis Cloke has booted 14 goals in 13 games. Against the Magpies, Nick Riewoldt has kicked 31 goals in 17 games and Stephen Milne has kicked 43 goals in 21 games.
4. This will be the 214th clash between the sides. Collingwood has dominated, winning 154 games to the Saints 57 with two draws.
5. Collingwood's defence has struggled so far this season, conceding 106 points per game compared to an average of 84 in 2012.
6. Both teams have struggled with clearances this season and are ranked equal 14th.
The views in this story are those of the author and not necessarily those of the AFL or the clubs.
