The Collingwood Magpies captain, Darcy Moore, has come under scrutiny in the 2024 AFL season following a noticeable decline in the team’s defensive performance. Despite being known as one of the most athletic defenders in the league, Moore’s efforts in key matches have been criticized for lacking intensity and allowing opponents too much space. This has led to concerns about Collingwood’s ability to compete at the level that saw them win the premiership just last year.
Pundits have pointed to specific instances during games, particularly against Essendon, where Moore failed to apply sufficient pressure or provide defensive support. His passive approach left gaps that the Bombers exploited, leading to several scoring opportunities. This criticism is part of a broader narrative that suggests the Magpies, as a whole, have lost the defensive hunger that defined their premiership-winning campaign. They have struggled with both work rate and cohesion on the field, with key players, including Jordan De Goey, also being called out for failing to perform defensively【9†source】.
Off the field, Moore has been praised for his leadership and dedication. His teammates, including midfielder Tom Mitchell, have defended him, highlighting his commitment to improving the team and individuals. Mitchell emphasized that Moore has been proactive in leading by example, working on extra drills and encouraging teammates to step up. Despite the on-field issues, Moore has been recognized as an exemplary captain who represents the club’s values and works hard behind the scenes to address performance gaps【10†source】.
The Magpies’ struggles have been further compounded by injuries and inconsistencies in form across the squad. This season, their defense of the premiership has wavered, and they currently find themselves in a precarious position on the ladder, fighting to secure a finals spot. Their form has dipped, with key players missing games and others not performing to the same standard as last year. The team’s lack of defensive rigor has been highlighted as a significant factor in their downturn, with experts suggesting changes need to be made if they hope to turn their season around【10†source】.
In summary, while Darcy Moore and the Collingwood leadership have faced criticism for the team’s defensive failings, there is an acknowledgment of the hard work being done off the field to rectify these issues. As the Magpies push to revive their season, the spotlight remains on how the team will adjust and whether they can reclaim their former intensity and cohesion.
