"One of my favourites to compete against": Pendlebury's high praise for opposition war-horse

Collingwood great Scott Pendlebury has given high praise to Tom Liberatore and the Bulldogs as well as providing some insight into his playing future.

Collingwood managed to play spoiler to the Bulldogs 100-year celebration in the VFL/AFL, winning 76-70.

Pendlebury had a very solid performance himself against the Bulldogs, managing 26 disposals with an 84.6% disposal efficiency.

Speaking about last night’s match on SEN's Crunch Time, Pendlebury was complimentary of the Bulldogs' performance, particularly around their ability to pressure the Magpies.

“There was a lot of pressure in the game absolutely, especially around the footy,” Pendlebury said.

“The Bulldogs pressured really well and it’s something we base our game on, the pressure.

“So, there was a big battle which we knew around the ball that was going to come.”

He even went out of his way to praise Western Bulldogs’ interim captain Tom Liberatore on his performance which included 34 disposals, 9 clearances and a goal.

“Libba for them, I thought was just superb all night,” Pendlebury mentioned.

“He just keeps chugging along, he’s a bit quicker and stronger than what you think and, to be honest, he is one of my favourites to compete against and play against.

“It was a great battle against him at times, but it definitely felt like finals football.”

When asked about whether Boomer Harvey’s games-record is in his sights, Pendlebury was not too phased, instead he has a third premiership in mind as his main goal.

“Probably for the last five years, it’s just been, get through the year and try and chase the ultimate,” he said.

“And that’s what I’ll do this year, whatever I can do to help the team get there, that’s what I’ll be focused on.

“And if that means I’m playing good enough footy that the club wants me to go around again, you know, I love footy and I would love to play for as long as I can.

“But the goal is another premiership first and then and if I happen to get to that record or get near it, I’ll be pretty humbled by it.”    

Collingwood will have the bye next week followed by rivals Carlton on Thursday the 3rd of April at the MCG.