Collingwood’s new look VFL side gave fans plenty to be excited about in their 30-point practice match win over North Melbourne.

New VFL Senior Coach Matthew Lokan fielded 13 fresh faces in the Sunday morning clash at Arden Street Oval, with the match consisting of four 25-minute quarters with no time on.

Draftees show promising signs

Sunday morning’s match was the first official showing of 2025 NGA graduates Zac McCarthy and Jai Saxena since hearing their names called in November’s AFL Draft.

Saxena showcased his aerial abilities early, with the 179cm small forward launching himself into contests and used his speed to get into space, finishing his day kicking two goals from four attempts, while McCarthy also booted two majors.

Former SUN shines in midfield

After being recruited from North Adelaide in the SANFL in the off-season, untried former Gold Coast SUN Oskar Faulkhead was dominant in the Pies’ midfield.

The 23-year-old utilised his natural speed and power well, evading opposition cleanly to get the ball to the in-form forward line.

Another rebounding Quaynor?

The 19-year-old brother to Collingwood AFL leader Isaac, young Luke Quaynor displayed similarities akin to his Premiership-winning older brother.

Often kickstarting defensive transition alongside off-season VFL recruit Michael Lewis with their intercepting abilities, Quaynor was a key instigator in Collingwood’s backline.

Mahoney the catalyst

After re-signing for his second year in the VFL, utility Max Mahoney looked comfortable while playing all over the field on Sunday morning.

While his footwork in all three areas of the ground was formidable, even more impressive was the use of his voice, with the 19-year-old directing and inspiring his teammates both in and out of play.