Collingwood captain Scott Pendlebury has dismissed suggestions the dour Magpies could completely unleash the shackles against ladder leaders Melbourne in Nathan Buckley's final game as coach.
Buckley's looming departure has dominated the build-up to the traditional Queen's Birthday AFL clash, moved to the SCG this year because of Victoria's COVID-19 outbreak.
It has prompted talk the Magpies could adopt a care-free brand of football in a bid to send off the club legend on a high, having attracted criticism for their role in a series of defensive slugfests in recent rounds.
"I think you'll see the same Collingwood that you've seen for the last few weeks - really competitive," Pendlebury said.
"Melbourne, what a test. They're playing some of the best football in the league right now.
"Their midfield's been on fire, their big guys are catching it, their defenders are defending really well.
"It's a great test for us."
After narrow defeats to flag contenders Port Adelaide (one point) and Geelong (10 points), Collingwood broke through for a much-needed victory away against Adelaide (five points) last week.
It came against the backdrop of a board room fight for control of the embattled club and intensifying scrutiny over Buckley's position.
The 48-year-old's departure after almost a decade in charge was announced days later and his 218th and final match as coach is certain to deliver an emotion-charged contest.
"We acknowledge it's going to be a big occasion," Pendlebury said.
"(There) is going to be a bit of emotion in the game, but we want to go out there and play a good brand of footy and try to get the result."
The Magpies have regained experienced utility Chris Mayne and recalled Beau McCreery, while Brayden Sier is out with a jaw injury.
Wingman Ed Langdon is back from concussion for Melbourne, who are chasing a third successive victory after suffering their only loss of the season in a shock defeat to Adelaide back in round 10.
Demons coach Simon Goodwin said his side will be ready for whatever Collingwood throw at them.
"They're playing a lot better footy than what people give them credit for and they're a tough team to break down," Goodwin said.
"Whatever way they play we'll be prepared for, but we know we need to be at our best."
Australian Associated Press
