“It’s really important, and Pendles, and some of the leaders amongst our group, have had a lot of games on this big stage, in this moment. You can get overawed by things, I think; 95,000 hopefully, turn up again,” McRae said, adding he expected his line-up to be unchanged from Saturday’s win over the Power.
Essendon captain Zach Merrett and Collingwood counterpart Darcy Moore ahead of the Anzac Day blockbuster.Credit: Darrian Traynor
“You go away doing the processes of what it takes. The football is the same size, the ground is the same size. It’s just the occasion you can get caught up in. We would like to stay a little more present to that, and break it down even more, minute-by-minute-type thing.”
McRae said the Magpies were honoured to take part in the game, recalling Darcy Moore’s touching tribute to war veterans and those currently serving after the Magpies had overhauled a 28-point deficit to edge the Bombers in last year’s clash.
“I think the day itself is of so much significance for all of us,” McRae said.
“I think last year, what Darcy spoke really well of afterwards, was the families associated with war. Hopefully, we can put a smile on some of those faces that have had some tough times over the years. It’s a great occasion, and we are really grateful to be a part of it.”
After a winless opening three rounds, the Magpies have rebounded with wins over the Brisbane Lions, Hawthorn and Port Adelaide, the latter rebounding from a 31-point deficit, and are resembling the side which claimed last year’s premiership.
They now face an in-form Essendon with a midfield featuring Zach Merrett, Sam Durham, Nic Martin and Jye Caldwell.
“They are really good around stoppage. Their numbers, they are top two for nearly everything around stoppages – scoring efficiency, their pressure around stoppages is really strong. They are things we need to be on top of,” McRae said.
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“Every game presents something different. Port Adelaide, contest or aerial power. This week, it’s stoppage, and other parts. They ‘park the bus’ at times, too, so you are going to have to work your way through a lot of numbers.”
The Magpies have won their past two Anzac Day clashes, and McRae wants to extend that record in what shapes to be wet and slippery conditions.
Nick Daicos is averaging almost 30 possessions, and had 14 score involvements and 755 metres gained against the Power. Brother Josh, the reigning Copeland Trophy winner, is averaging almost 25 touches, while Jordan De Goey had 27 and was instrumental in Saturday’s win.
