August 29, 2014: A year in review...

This is the last Smother for August. The last Home & Away Smother for 2014. The last Smother that will be written this year before a Collingwood game.

As frustrating as it's been to watch the Black and White fade from a top four chance into bottom half obscurity, it hasn't been without it's highlights. Clinton Young's dropped mark against Gold Coast vindicated my avid stance on him being, well, not very good. Jack Frost has continued to impress and I think I love him. Broomhead's humorous last name continues to elicit joy.

Alas, we must look forward to the future. Where does this Collingwood team sit? It's hard to say. Next year will be critical to confirming the direction - we should either go down to the lower reaches of the ladder, or climb toward sixth or so. Existing in football purgatory -  8th - 10th - is a recipe for going nowhere. Just ask Richmond...

In the news...
Brenton Sanderson will give his players the mushroom treatment concerning the Gold Coast v West Coast result, insisting that they must focus on their own game if they are to nab 8th spot. "We've got to ensure that our group is totally focused on starting well" said Sanderson.

Meanwhile Adam Simpson is in a different camp with his Eagles. "There is no doubt the guys will be watching, I wont stop them from watching the games" he said.

And in Friday fluff, Port Adelaide have been granted permission to play INXS' Never Tear Us Apart before its home finals. "it's a terrific coup for supporters" said CEO Keith Thomas of the decision.

AND it's Supercoach Grand Final week - Teams are here. Remember to shower.