Nick Riewoldt Calls for Pragmatic Approach in Scott Pendlebury's Record Pursuit
St Kilda great Nick Riewoldt has emphasized that Collingwood must not allow emotional factors to overshadow practical considerations as they navigate Scott Pendlebury's journey toward the VFL/AFL games record. Pendlebury is poised to equal Brent Harvey's all-time mark of 432 games on Anzac Day against Essendon, with the opportunity to break it in Round 8 against Hawthorn at the MCG, assuming he avoids injury or rest before then.
Strategic Management Over Sentimental Decisions
Riewoldt expressed surprise if Pendlebury were to achieve the record in Round 8, advocating for a cautious management strategy. "I think Collingwood now are in a position where they can — not get cute with this — but they should manage Scott Pendlebury in a way that ensures he gets to this record unscathed," he stated. Highlighting Pendlebury's age and injury history, particularly calf issues that sidelined him briefly in last year's preliminary final against Brisbane, Riewoldt stressed the need for prudence.
He proposed resting Pendlebury either for the Anzac Day clash or the Round 8 game against Hawthorn, noting that at 38 years old, the veteran player's health should take precedence over ceremonial occasions. When challenged by Mitch Cleary about the significance of Anzac Day, Riewoldt argued that the courageous decision would be to omit Pendlebury from that match, saving him for the Hawks encounter, which might hold greater seasonal importance despite Anzac Day's prestige.
Alternative Record-Breaking Scenario
If rested on Anzac Day, Pendlebury would then target the record in Round 9 against Geelong at the MCG. Riewoldt pointed out that this alternative still offers a high-profile setting, with Geelong likely to honor the achievement appropriately. "It's still at the MCG. It's still against a marquee opponent in Geelong," he remarked, underscoring that the milestone can be celebrated meaningfully without unnecessary risk.
This advice underscores a broader debate in sports management between honoring traditions and ensuring player longevity, as Collingwood balances Pendlebury's legacy with team performance and injury prevention.
