TIPSLIFEHACKS

Maynard's Absence Continues, Lipinski Returns for Collingwood

Collingwood fans are facing a familiar sight – the absence of vice-captain Brayden Maynard. The dynamic defender will miss his third consecutive game, ruling him out of Saturday night’s clash against St Kilda at Marvel Stadium. However, the news isn’t all gloomy for the Pies, as Pat Lipinski has been given the all-clear to return to the side, bolstering Collingwood's midfield presence.

Maynard has been battling a persistent plantar fascia issue throughout the season, impacting his availability and hindering his ability to perform at his peak. The injury has proven difficult to manage, and the club has opted to err on the side of caution to ensure a full recovery. This ongoing absence leaves a significant hole in Collingwood’s defensive line, demanding adjustments from the coaching staff and the remaining players.

McRae Questions Daicos Tagging – Is it Worth the Risk?

Adding another layer of intrigue to the situation, Collingwood coach Craig McRae has publicly questioned the 'value' of the tagging strategy employed on young star Jack Daicos. While the intent is undoubtedly to protect Daicos from physical matchups and allow him to focus on his offensive game, McRae's comments suggest he's re-evaluating whether the current approach is truly beneficial.

“We’re always looking at what’s best for Jack’s development and the team’s success,” McRae stated. “Sometimes, those tags can limit his exposure to certain situations. We need to weigh up the pros and cons carefully.” This admission highlights a potential shift in Collingwood's tactical approach, acknowledging that shielding a player too heavily can stifle their growth and potentially reduce their overall impact on the game.

Lipinski's Return: A Boost for the Midfield

The return of Pat Lipinski provides a much-needed boost to Collingwood’s midfield. Lipinski’s physicality and tackling ability have been sorely missed, and his presence is expected to add a layer of toughness and resilience to the team’s engine room. His experience and leadership qualities will also be invaluable as Collingwood navigate a challenging period.

With Maynard sidelined and the team considering adjustments to their tagging strategy, Saturday night’s match against St Kilda promises to be a fascinating contest. Collingwood will need to find a way to compensate for Maynard's absence while simultaneously addressing McRae’s concerns about Daicos’s tagging. Lipinski’s return offers a glimmer of hope, but the Pies will need a collective effort to secure a victory.

Looking Ahead

The focus now shifts to ensuring Maynard’s full recovery and finding the optimal balance in protecting Daicos. McRae’s comments suggest a willingness to adapt and evolve, which is crucial for sustained success in the AFL. Collingwood fans will be eager to see how the team responds to these challenges and whether Lipinski can quickly re-establish himself as a key contributor.