David King was full of praise for Collingwood’s high-possession game style in Sunday’s 16-point win over Richmond.
The Magpies kicked eight of the last nine goals to further dent the Tigers’ finals hopes in Robert Harvey’s first win as Collingwood caretaker coach.
Harvey’s men finished with 97 more disposals, 86 more uncontested possessions and took 58 more marks which helped the Pies steamroll the reigning premiers.
“This is the frustration outside looking in. When caretaker coaches coach like caretaker coaches, you get these performances,” King told SEN’s Whateley.
“You get some bad ones in there, but then you get the freedom.
“They had a seven-goal fourth quarter - they’ve had games this year where they haven’t kicked seven goals.
“To see them have 200 handballs for what would be the first time in three or four years, what it means is if you’re prepared to work, you’ll get rewarded. If you’re prepared to run, we will use you.
“That’s a great feeling. You look at the Western Bulldogs, they embrace that. Collingwood embraced that (on Sunday). They had 100 more disposals than Richmond. Richmond just had to chase tail all game.”
Collingwood star Taylor Adams (33 disposals, 10 clearances and 10 tackles) was immense, while Jordan De Goey (29) stepped up at crucial stages as the Magpies slammed on seven last-quarter goals.
“I was really happy for guys like Adams and (Scott) Pendlebury who have worked so hard over the last 12 months or so for little reward,” King said.
“I was just thrilled to see De Goey stand up when the moment arrived late, and he had to do a couple of things.
“It was a man saying, ‘I know what this looks like. I know how to separate these games’.
“I was rapt for Robert Harvey. Whether he gets this job or not is irrelevant, he’s shown that he can do the role.”
Collingwood (5-11) go in search of back-to-back wins when they meet rivals Carlton (6-10) at the MCG on Sunday.
