Collingwood vs Geelong: A Rivalry for the Ages

The AFL's Greatest Rivalry
In the pantheon of sporting contests, few rivalries can match the intensity and passion of Collingwood and Geelong. These two titans of Australian football have been locked in a fierce battle for decades, creating some of the most memorable moments in the sport's history.

The rivalry's roots can be traced back to the early days of the Victorian Football League (VFL). In 1897, Collingwood and Geelong met for the first time in a thrilling draw. The match set the tone for many years to come, as these two clubs developed a deep-seated respect and animosity for each other.

Over the years, the rivalry has been fueled by a number of factors. Both clubs are located in Victoria, making the matches particularly intense for local fans. Additionally, Collingwood and Geelong have been consistently successful, often competing for the premiership. This has created a sense of high stakes in every encounter.

The MCG Factor

One of the key elements of the Collingwood-Geelong rivalry is the fact that it often takes place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The MCG is the largest stadium in Australia and has a capacity of over 100,000 people. This creates a truly intimidating atmosphere for the players and a passionate, vocal crowd for both sets of fans.

The Legends of the Rivalry

The rivalry has been blessed with some of the greatest players in the history of the game. Gordon Coventry, Bob Murphy, Tony Lockett, and Gary Ablett Jr. are just a few of the legends who have graced the field for Collingwood and Geelong. These players have left an indelible mark on the rivalry and have helped to make it one of the most celebrated in sport.

The Grand Finals

The ultimate stage in the Collingwood-Geelong rivalry is the Grand Final. These two clubs have met in the Grand Final on seven occasions, with Geelong holding a slight edge with four wins to Collingwood's three. The most recent Grand Final meeting between the two clubs was in 2011, when Geelong prevailed by a mere 38 points.

The Future of the Rivalry

The Collingwood-Geelong rivalry is as strong as ever today. Both clubs are perennial contenders for the premiership, and their matches are always highly anticipated. The future of the rivalry looks bright, as both clubs continue to produce talented players and passionate fans.

Whether you're a Magpie or a Cat, there's no denying the passion and excitement that surrounds the Collingwood-Geelong rivalry. It's a rivalry that has stood the test of time and will continue to be passed down through generations of footy fans.