Swans Eye Second Upset against Magpies: Collingwood and Sydney Set for Showdown at the MCG

Collingwood is looking to avoid a rocky start to its premiership defence as it prepares to face Brodie Grundy’s Sydney at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday night. The Magpies, coming off an opening-round loss to Greater Western Sydney, are eager to shake off any early-season struggles.

Sydney, fresh from a confident victory over Melbourne in round one, seeks to maintain its winning momentum against the reigning premiers. The clash sets up an intriguing battle with the wounded Magpies aiming to assert their dominance and the Swans eyeing a potential upset at the MCG.

Brodie Grundy, a former Magpies stalwart with 177 games under his belt, will confront his old team in what promises to be an emotional reunion on the field. Both sides head into the game with determined mindsets, eager to secure a vital win early in the season.

Collingwood has announced two changes for the match, with the omission of Tom Mitchell due to management and John Noble being left out. Young talent Fin Macrae earns a recall to the line-up, while the experienced Jeremy Howe returns to bolster the Magpies’ backline.

Notable absentees from Collingwood’s side include Nathan Kreuger, who continues his recovery from a hamstring strain, and Taylor Adams, who is gradually overcoming a knee injury. Luke Parker and Callum Mills remain sidelined for Sydney as they navigate their respective injuries.

With key matchups across the field, including the ruck battle featuring Cameron and Grundy, and the midfield contests led by star players like De Goey and Daicos for Collingwood, and Rowbottom and Sheldrick for the Swans, the stage is set for an enthralling Friday night showdown.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground is anticipated to host a high-intensity clash as two determined teams face off in what is expected to be a fiercely competitive encounter. Both sides will be eager to secure a crucial victory and make their mark in the early stages of the AFL season.