**Collingwood Falls to Frankston by 19 Points in Round 15 VFL Match**
Collingwood suffered a 19-point defeat against Frankston in their Round 15 VFL clash at Kinetic Stadium.
The Pies started strong, kicking four first-quarter goals from different players to take a narrow lead into the first break. However, Frankston responded with a six-goal to two second term, with Liam Purcell and Ash Johnson (scoring his second) being the only Collingwood players to find the scoreboard in that quarter.
Frankston dominated the third quarter, leaving the Pies trailing by five goals heading into the final term. Despite a late surge from Collingwood, where Johnson added multiple goals to finish with five, they ultimately fell short, losing by 19 points.
Sullivan and Bytel Shine in Midfield
Lachie Sullivan and Jack Bytel, playing together for the first time since Round Five, bolstered one of the Pies’ strongest midfields this season. Sullivan, returning from an eight-game stint at AFL level, made an immediate impact with 10 disposals in the opening term. Bytel was diligent, consistently distributing the ball inside fifty. Together, they amassed 57 disposals (Sullivan 28 and Bytel 27), showcasing their skill.
Smit Impresses with Ruckwork and Pressure
Mid-season draftee Iliro Smit stood out not just for his 35 hit outs but also for his pressure and tackling around the contest. The 200cm tall ruckman led the team at halftime with six tackles, controlling the stoppages he was involved in and adding four clearances from his 10 disposals.
Schreiber Finds Form
Key defender Kaden Schreiber arguably played his best game since returning from a long-term knee injury, collecting a season-high 15 disposals and patrolling the half-back line effectively. He also took four marks and made numerous spoils to assist his teammates in defense.
Wilson Excels in New Role
Veteran Tom Wilson, usually a midfielder or forward, adapted well to a defensive role off half-back. Although not prolific in statistics, Wilson’s poise and experience provided calmness in the defensive fifty.
Next Match
Collingwood will face Geelong next Saturday at Victoria Park.
Match Details
FRANKSTON: 3.4 9.8 11.12 13.16 (94)
COLLINGWOOD: 4.3 6.4 7.6 11.9 (75)
GOALS
Collingwood: Johnson 5, Purcell, Mulvogue, Longmire, Eyre, Macrae, Mahoney.