Collingwood’s Coach Craig McRae extolls forward Jack Ginnivan as a “big-game player”, a vital spark in their offensive line, as they move into this weekend’s AFL grand final. Insisting a minimum of 10 goals will secure victory, McRae acknowledges the challenges presented by a strong Brisbane Lions team.
Ginnivan, celebrated Anzac Day medallist of 2022 following a five-goal triumph before 85,000 spectators, was chosen over Pat Lipinski in a shuffle of the starting 22, setting the stage for a fierce battle with the Brisbane Lions.
McRae recognises that the potency of Brisbane’s forward team offers a new challenge, following the Magpies’ slim victories in their first two finals, where they didn’t exceed ten goals.
Offering a record of underwhelming wins, Collingwood emerged triumphant in the qualifying final against Melbourne by 9.6 (60) and narrowly beat GWS in the preliminary final with 8.10 (58). McRae voices concerns that this level of performance may not suffice in keeping the Lions, who boast an average of 14 goals per game over a six-game winning streak, at bay this Saturday.
Facing this upcoming spectacle, McRae expresses confidence in his team’s ability to withstand Brisbane’s onslaught. Despite having scored only nine or ten goals in each game, he maintains a resilient approach, ensuring the opponent’s numbers stay lower.
Recognizing Ginnivan’s impressive Anzac Day performance, McRae hails him as having confirmed his big-game credentials, a vital addition to the final’s lineup. Ginnivan’s invaluable contribution promises to be a much-needed spark in the grand final.
The coach notes Ginnivan’s potential to uplift the team’s goal-scoring strength, referencing the injured Dan McStay, a regular scorer. McRae reveals that the final team selection, announced by Wednesday, aimed to alleviate any pre-selection anxiety among players.
McRae confirms that Billy Frampton will take McStay’s place, the former Crow transitioning to a forward role after spending much of the season in defence or ruck. This, the coach declared, is a heartening tale of opportunity amid adversity.
Observing the task waiting for his team, McRae acknowledges that the way they control the ball will significantly impact their ability to neutralize Andrew Harris, Brisbane’s co-captain. He insists that their strategy will focus more on nimble and unpredictable ball movement than personnel changes.
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