Ed Allan has just stamped his name on Craig McRae's selection board with a stunning VFL display against Richmond in a tight win for the Pies.
Allan's 30 touches, nine clearances two goals had him best on ground, shadowed closely by fellow AFL-listed talents Charlie Dean (26 disposals, 15 marks) and Fin Macrae (29 disposals, six tackles).
The highlight of the day, however, came in critical fourth quarter fashion with the scores tied, when Allan launched a torpedo punt from beyond the centre circle that carried all the way to goal, giving the Magpies the lead late.
And speaking of 'big,' how's Ed's effort from the CENTRE CIRCLE if you don't mind!? 🤯
[via @VFL] https://t.co/Bpft57G1Qv pic.twitter.com/H6C4Hg2ovU
— 7AFL (@7AFL) July 28, 2024
Without the same carry of Jeff Fehring or Malcolm Blight's monstrous punts many decades ago, the kick still managed to cover more than half the field at Swinburne Centre, fortunately bouncing all the way through the big sticks, having landed just half-way inside 50.
Regardless, the kick caps off a memorable day for the 20-year-old, who may have staked his claim for a second senior match in Craig McRae's side in their push for finals.
Allan has managed just the one appearance in the big time thus far, coming in Collingwood's drawn clash with Fremantle in May, where the youngster managed just the seven disposals and two tackles.
With the club's shocker run of injuries and need to blood more young talent this season, Allan may be trialled again through the closing stages of the season, as the reigning champs seek to re-establish their absent aura.