FridayOL

Collingwood coach Craig McRae has voiced concerns about his team's ability to maintain their usual intensity and spark in tight finishes, following a second consecutive loss decided by a narrow margin of six points or less. The Magpies suffered a heartbreaking defeat, and McRae is keen to address what he perceives as a drop-off in performance when the game is on the line.

This latest setback comes on the heels of a similar loss the previous week, raising questions about Collingwood's resilience and mental fortitude in crucial moments. While the team has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, McRae believes they need to rediscover that 'spark' that defined their earlier performances, particularly when the pressure is at its highest.

“We’ve been working hard all season, and the players are giving their all,” McRae stated after the match. “But there’s something missing in those final minutes. We need to find a way to hold our nerve and execute our game plan under pressure. It's not about a lack of effort; it's about the decision-making and composure when every possession matters.”

The concern isn’t necessarily about the result itself, but rather the manner in which Collingwood is approaching these close contests. McRae wants to see a renewed focus, a sharper edge, and a greater willingness to fight for every inch in the dying stages of the game. He emphasized the importance of maintaining belief and sticking to their systems, even when the scoreboard isn’t favouring them.

Analysts have pointed to a potential fatigue factor, with Collingwood having played a demanding schedule in recent weeks. However, McRae dismissed this as a significant issue, insisting that the players are fit and prepared. He believes the problem lies more in the mental aspect of the game, and the need to develop a stronger mental toughness to overcome adversity.

Looking ahead, McRae and his coaching staff will be working closely with the players to address these concerns. They plan to focus on drills and scenarios that simulate high-pressure situations, aiming to build confidence and improve decision-making under duress. The goal is to ensure that Collingwood can regain their 'spark' and consistently perform at their best, regardless of the scoreline or the time remaining on the clock.

The Magpies faithful will be hoping to see a swift turnaround, as Collingwood aims to solidify their position in the top eight and mount a serious challenge for premiership glory. The ability to win close games is a hallmark of a championship team, and McRae is determined to ensure that Collingwood possesses that crucial attribute.

This isn't a crisis, McRae insists, but a challenge that needs to be met head-on. “We’ve got a good group here, and I’m confident we can turn things around,” he concluded. “It’s about identifying the issues, working together, and coming back stronger.”