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No questions asked by Magpies on high contact updates

McRae says he and his players are ‘really clear’ on the head-high interpretation.

Published by
Michael Georgiou

Collingwood coach Craig McRae says his side has full understanding on how the high tackle rule will be adjudicated from now on.

A league umpire visited the AIA Centre on Friday, and took part in the light match simulation.

Ahead of their crucial clash against Essendon, McRae says they have no concerns.

"It's a tightening of the screws of what was always there," McRae told the media.

"It's really clear for me; the guy winning the ball is going to be protected and the ball-carrier, if you duck and bend your knees or whatever it looks like to create the high contact, then that will be interpreted against you."

Small forward Jack Ginnivan has been a subject of debate, especially when it comes to head-high contact.

There has been criticism of the 19-year-old's method of gaining free kicks and even suggestions that he has been umpired differently to others.

Ginnivan was one of three examples used by the AFL in a memo to clubs.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 09: Jack Ginnivan of the Magpies is challenged by Jaidyn Stephenson of the Kangaroos during the round 17 AFL match between the Collingwood Magpies and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 09, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

"We think it's bigger than just Jack," McRae said.

"We coach all our players, so we stepped away from having one on ones with Jack and an umpire.

"The umpire directed all of us and we'll play within the rules."

The first year coach shared his belief that there is a skill in taking on a tackle and thart he doesn't have to re-train his players.

"I definitely think it's a skill in terms of going into the tackle," McRae said.

"Players are getting really good at it. If anything, they got too good at it.

"But we started at the start of the year around our shape and our hands and getting through traffic.

"That's what we're talking about, the congested game and how you get through traffic."

Collingwood will host the Bombers on Sunday at the MCG at 3.20 pm aest.

Isaac Quaynor (COVID protocols) and Taylor Adams (concussion) are confirmed to return this weekend, while star ruckman Brodie Grundy will wait at least another week.

Published by
Michael Georgiou