It's a sombre day, is ANZAC Day.
A day Australians come together to recall with reverence of the sacrifices of the men and women who have served this country.
Since 1995, two of of the nation's biggest sporting clubs have gone head to head on April 25th, serving up countless classics to do their part in honouring the servicemen and women the day celebrates.
Collingwood, and Essendon. Two Victorian powerhouses who, over the years, have seen their colours adorned by some of the codes biggest names. Here's a ranking of 10 of the very best players who have featured in the Magpies v Bombers showpiece since its inception. It's some list if Gavin Brown and Nick Daicos can't get a gig!
1. James Hird
One of the very best to ever take the AFL field, Hird's career came from humble beginnings.
The boy with the golden locks was drafted with the Bombers seventh selection in the 1990 draft; pick 79.
Given that lowly selection, and the injuries that dogged the start of his career, the resume the Canberran would go on to accumulate is barely believable.
Two flags, including one as captain, a Brownlow, five All-Australians, five best and fairests, a Norm Smith, two leading goalkicker nods, eight seasons of faultless captaincy, and three ANZAC medals.
Just brilliant, "Hirdy". A worthy leader of a packed field.
Funny how Collingwood has won more of these games but only have 4 of the top 10 players. I guess winning games doesn’t count for much.