Young draftees power Collingwood to thrilling VFL win over Gold Coast

Gold Coast and Collingwood have played out a thrilling VFL contest at Olympic Park, with the Pies holding on to win by five points: 66-61.

With the Melbourne Storm game in the background and the lights of AAMI Park flickering purple, a fantastic game of footy was being played in picturesque conditions.

First-round selection Reef McInnes kicked the winner for the Magpies, putting them in front after the Suns led for most of the final term.

Fellow Pies first-round draftee Ollie Henry was the difference on the scoreboard, booting 3.3 and taking some big marks in the win.

Gold Coast’s midfield dominated proceedings, Will Brodie (41 disposals), Darcy Macpherson (34) and Brayden Fiorini (33) all led the way.

Free agency pick-up Rory Atkins hit the scoreboard with two goals.

For Collingwood, Tom Wilson picked up 30 touches to go with a goal, while Brayden Sier had 28 and Jack Madgen 24.

Suns ruckman Zac Smith got through the game unscathed, winning 31 hit-outs across the night.

Mason Cox was a late withdrawal before the game with soreness.

Q4 | REEF MCINNES PUTS THE PIES IN FRONT

Pies ⚫️⚪️ 66
Suns 🔴🟡 61#GoPies pic.twitter.com/DgqNSmannl
— Collingwood FC VFL (@CollingwoodVFL) April 30, 2021