Collingwood Magpies v Hawthorn Hawks, scores, results, fixtures, teams, tips, games, how to watch
Collingwood veteran Steele Sidebottom says in hindsight he may not have needed to take a break for the Pies’ clash with North Melbourne ahead of tonight’s round 12 clash against Hawthorn, but he again endorsed the club’s capacity to bring in fresh players without interrupting the club’s momentum.
Speaking to Fox Footy ahead his 342nd career game, Sidebottom stressed that Collingwood were a “system-based” outfit.
“Looking at it now, I didn’t need the break,” said Sidebotton, who was recalled along with Scott Pendlebury and Darcy Moore for tonight’s clash.
Steele Sidebottom is enjoying some of the best form of his career.Credit: Getty Images
“I think our fitness guys at the club and the coaches have got a good balance of… when we need guys to play.
“When you bank enough wins early, maybe you’ve got a bit of a luxury to rest some guys.
“In saying that, it doesn’t matter who plays each week, someone comes in and plays a role.”
Collingwood have banked their 10th win with the destruction of Hawthorn to restamp their premiership credentials.
“I think we’ve got a great squad, no matter who wears the jumper. We’re a system-based team,” said Sidebottom.
“I think we’ve shown this year that no matter who comes into the team we just play a role. It’s holding us in good stead in big games.”
The veteran was also asked about taking four bounces while carrying the ball on the wing.
“I was lucky that Ginny [Jack Ginnivan] was chasing me,” Sidebottom quipped.
“I don’t think I ever have [taken four bounces] … which is nice.”
