Speaking to the media at the Lexus Centre on Wednesday, the 143-game veteran said that while the Eagles are the benchmark, there is no reason why the Magpies can’t repeat their efforts of recent times and notch their second win for 2007.
“You look at the history of the sides in recent years and we’ve actually done pretty well, whether it be here or over there", Lockyer said.
“The games have been pretty close. So I think we’ve got a lot of confidence going up against West Coast, simply because of the track record, and all things being equal, it should be the same again."
Lockyer acknowledged the Eagles’ rousing victory over Sydney last week, and their injury and off-field troubles might mean they will take Collingwood lightly, but the Magpies certainly won’t be falling for that trap.
“They’ve had a big week, and the rivalry against Sydney, nowadays, is almost bigger than the derby, so hopefully they have a lull and take us quite lightly, but we’re not preparing for that, we’re preparing for West Coast at their best."
In 2006 the Magpies played exceptionally well in a highly entertaining contest against the Eagles at Subiaco in round seven, falling short by just 14 points, before turning the tables in round 16 with a super-impressive 37-point triumph at Telstra Dome.
In 2005 the Magpies got up in the only meeting between the two sides, by 23 points at the MCG, and in 2004 the spoils also went to Collingwood in the only match, so even during this period where West Coast has been one of the best teams in the competition, the Magpies have certainly been able to produce some terrific football when needed.
This Saturday night's contest will commence at 5:40PMAWST, with both teams coming off thrilling round one victories.
