McRae lauds Magpies' spirit after epic AFL loss to Cats
Craig McRae has lauded his players as winners, even though their six-game AFL streak is over.
He was rapt with how they handled the end of Saturday night's epic three-point loss to Geelong, rallying around Jack Crisp when he missed his shot at goal after the siren.
It would have been a fairytale finish had he kicked accurately, given Crisp was playing in his 245th-consecutive match.
That broke the long-standing AFL record, set by Melbourne great Jim Stynes.
Collingwood players and also some Cats opponents immediately went to Crisp after his crucial kick only scored a behind.
"When he misses that kick, just look at the response of our team. It's testament to the character and culture that we have," McRae said after the agonising 13.12 (90) to 12.15 (87) loss.
"We look like winners, regardless of what the scoreboard said."
Crisp said the support he received made him emotional.
"I definitely feel a lot of love, everyone getting around me, especially Geelong players as well. It nearly brought a tear to my eye," he told Fox Footy.
The Magpies get around Jack Crisp after the final siren 🖤🤍#AFLPiesCats pic.twitter.com/npiK0EDZpv
— AFL (@AFL) May 3, 2025
His shot at goal after the siren capped a frenetic finish to the game, with the Magpies kicking two late goals to nearly steal the win
There was also controversy, with Collingwood's Bobby Hill running down Shaun Mannagh in the last few minutes, only to be penalised for legging him.
"Bobby was probably a little bit stiff," McRae said.
Collingwood star Nick Daicos gave away a 50m penalty in the last term, his frustration showing after a solid tag from Oisin Mullin.
Daicos still had 28 possessions, but only three in the final term.
"He (Mullin) did a great job. It's hard to stop Nick and we're trying to move him to places where he has influence on the game," McRae said.
"It's just what happens now when you become this player.
"This is all just part of his learning."
Collingwood have a five-day break before playing Fremantle in Perth and McRae said they are planning accordingly. Jeremy Howe was rested for the Geelong game and other veterans are likely to not make the trip.
"Watch this space this week. We've been a bit deliberate in that ... five-day breaks are hard," McRae said.
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