- Collingwood have won the 2023 AFL premiership
- The Pies defeated Brisbane by just four points
- It is the 16th premiership won in their history
Collingwood have claimed a record-equalling 16th premiership with a thrilling four-point win over the Brisbane Lions in the AFL grand final.
Bobby Hill kicked a career-best four goals in the Magpies’ epic 12.18 (90) to 13.8 (86) victory in front of 100,024 fans on Saturday at the MCG. His performance saw him earn the Norm Smith medal.
Scott Pendlebury also starred and Jordan De Goey kicked the go-ahead goal with five minutes to play before Collingwood hung on in the desperate final stages after losing key defender Nathan Murphy to concussion before halftime.
It was the Magpies’ first premiership since 2010, following heartbreaking grand final defeats in 2011 and 2018.
On the final siren, Pies captain Darcy Moore said: ‘It’s so surreal. I grew up a Collingwood supporter, I was here in 2010 and it feels surreal.
Collingwood are AFL premiership winners after the Pies defeated Brisbane Lions at the MCG
Steele Sidebottom scored the decisive goal for the Pies at a sold-out MCG
Saturday’s victory means Collingwood have won 16 premierships in their history
‘So much work goes into it, so much has to go right, and we did it. Just incredible, it was fun to play and I am sure it was fun to watch.
‘We said at half time ‘jeez what an incredible game to play in’. Brisbane just kept coming at us, I am lost for words.’
Collingwood coach Craig McRae revealed he is a father again after his wife gave birth on Saturday morning.
He said: ‘Today is one of the best days of my life because my wife gave birth to a little girl this morning, so tonight I’m coming home with the cup.
‘I’d like to pay my respects to Fages [Chris Fagan] and the Brisbane Lions. I’ve always got a soft spot for you guys and it’s one of the best games I’ve ever been involved in. I’ve always seen this group as a really special one and now they’re a premiership team, congratulations.
‘Two years ago we started this campaign, one of our major focuses was to bring the fans along and it’s been a hell of a journey. The Magpie Army inspires us, this one is for you.’
More to follow.
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