AFL Round Four Insights: Pies Set to Dampen Carlton’s Campaign in Clash with ‘Finals Atmosphere’

This Thursday night, Carlton and Collingwood will face off at the MCG in a match that’s about more than just their historic rivalry.

In recent years, the Magpies have had ample chances to get one up on the Blues. Their victory in Round 23 of 2022 effectively kept Carlton out of finals contention. Last season, a last-gasp shot from Mitch McGovern after the siren sailed into the stands, denying the Blues a win against Collingwood.

Now, they have the opportunity to send Carlton into the season with a disappointing 0-4 record, making a finals appearance arduous while also dampening their morale.

Blues coach Michael Voss acknowledges the significance of the rivalry and the stage, anticipating another nail-biter.

“The rivalry is immense (between Carlton and Collingwood). Watching classic games from the 80s is probably my era – seeing both teams go head-to-head. Regardless of where you are seated or the timing in the season, these matches always hold significant weight,” Voss stated to reporters on Wednesday.

“When you mark the date in your calendar, it’s something you look forward to. Recently, our matchups have been tight, with more results going against us than in our favour.”

“It highlights how closely contested these fixtures are; often, it boils down to key moments and who can seize them.”

Collingwood coach Craig McRae is preparing for a highly motivated Carlton side, despite their winless streak.

“We evaluate our opponents based on their potential, not their current standings. Carlton’s best game is very competitive, and we expect them to bring it. 0-3 is quite a significant number, and we are ready for what lies ahead,” McRae conveyed to reporters on Tuesday.

“There’s an atmosphere reminiscent of finals footy. Our players trained with passion and intensity, embracing the anticipation surrounding this game and looking forward to the challenge.”

In other Round 4 fixtures, struggling teams Melbourne and West Coast are set to face tough opponents, taking on Geelong and GWS away from home.

Gold Coast will take on Adelaide in what could potentially be the most significant meeting between the two clubs in history, with both teams currently boasting an undefeated record after three matches and showing substantial improvement since last season.

Scroll down for the current leaderboard and Round 4 predictions from all of Nine’s expert tipsters!

Jimmy Bartel: Collingwood, Geelong, Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, GWS, St Kilda, Fremantle

Tom Morris: Collingwood, Geelong, Gold Coast, Brisbane, North Melbourne, GWS, Port Adelaide, Fremantle

Eddie McGuire: Collingwood, Geelong, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, GWS, Port Adelaide, Fremantle

Clint Stanaway: Collingwood, Geelong, Gold Coast, Brisbane, GWS, Sydney, Port Adelaide, Fremantle

Nat Yoannidis: Collingwood, Geelong, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, GWS, Port Adelaide, Fremantle