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!
5. Dane Swan
A man for the big occasion, "Swanny" is a player whose public persona and larrikinism have dulled the gloss of his sheer brilliance. A starring role in a memorable flag, a Brownlow Medal, five All-Australians, three best and fairests (including one in a premiership year), two ANZAC medals and the prestigious Leigh Matthews Trophy as the AFLPA's Most Valuable Player saw him enter the AFL Hall of Fame.
Dane Swan took the proverbial.
A man of the people, the tattooed jester racked up the pill for fun. Kicked unbelievable sausages to send the feral faithful into raptures. Treated would-be tacklers with an arrogant disdain. And did it all while loving a frothie and garnering headlines. A character the likes of which the modern game rarely serves up anymore.
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.