Fremantle delivered a stunning upset against Collingwood at the MCG, positioning themselves favourably for a top-eight finish. The match culminated in a nail-biting finish, with the Dockers seizing victory in the dying moments, reversing an earlier 23-point deficit.
Collingwood appeared to be in control, especially as they led heading into the final quarter. However, Fremantle rallied, scoring four consecutive goals to clinch the match. Shai Bolton’s behind in the last 90 seconds overturned the lead, leaving the Magpies unable to retort. In a final attempt, former Docker Lachie Schultz’s shot in the closing seconds was intercepted by Fremantle’s Josh Treacy, ensuring their win.
Nick Daicos stood out for Collingwood, amassing 43 disposals and contributing a goal, while Caleb Serong matched his efforts for Fremantle with 37 disposals and a goal. Patrick Voss, who had been cut from Essendon, stole the spotlight with an impressive six-goal performance.
This unexpected victory significantly boosts Fremantle’s chances for finals, now needing just two more wins from their remaining matches against teams like West Coast and Carlton. They are now in a position to put pressure on rivals like GWS, Hawthorn, and the Western Bulldogs, all of whom face challenging schedules ahead.
On the other hand, successive losses for Collingwood have tightened their grip on the top of the ladder. They’re now barely ahead of Brisbane and only one win clear of Adelaide, with daunting fixtures against both in the coming weeks. Their recent inconsistencies raise alarms about their hold on the minor premiership, especially as Adelaide’s superior percentage now puts them in a stronger position.
As always, the match’s close outcome brings umpiring decisions under scrutiny. A controversial 50-metre penalty awarded to Collingwood in the first half raised eyebrows, especially given its rarity this season. The call frustrated experts like Garry Lyon and Nick Riewoldt, who expressed disbelief, hinting at “selective umpiring.”
Both teams found themselves benefitting from their fair share of umpiring decisions during a game marked by pivotal moments. With the regular season winding down, every decision will be critical for the teams vying for finals contention.