AFTER a dominant pre-season there was plenty of hype around the new-look Magpies who seemed to have a real spring in their step. But without co-captain Madi Robinson Collingwood have struggled to find that same rhythm and connection in attack.

Ladder: 4th
Win-loss: 4-1-4
Percentage: 99.8%
Bonus points: 16

Overview:

The Magpies have had one of the most inconsistent seasons to date unable to string together good performances and struggling to win away from home. But they have proved that when they are on song they can blow teams out of their water with their clever ball placement and movement across the court. Collingwood has won four games this season edging themselves into the top four but have been on the receiving end of some big losses with the NSW Swifts and Sunshine Coast Lightning running over the top of them. The Magpies were well and truly exposed by the Swifts and Lightning unable to keep up with the speed and stop the precise ball movement across the court allowing easy avenues to goal. But they flexed their muscles against cross town rivals Melbourne Vixens to claim their first win against them in history showing that they have what it takes to mix it with the best but suffer from inconsistency.

Surprises:

With veteran goal keeper Sharni Layton retiring at the end of last season, England Roses goal keeper Geva Mentor made the switch from the Lightning to the Pies and proved to be a key cog for the black and white. Her ability to read the play and inspire her teammates to follow suit is second to none while her defensive pressure creates plenty of opportunities for turnover ball. Her hands over pressure, cleanliness and vision enables her to stay in play and create doubt in the feeders mind to cause havoc in opposition attack ends.

Improvements:

The Magpies have all the ingredients to be a dominant force if they hit their straps but inconsistency has plagued them right across the court. With five new players their connections down the court are struggling and when challenged by top teams the Magpies are simply unable to stand up under the pressure. They have proven that their best is exceptional while their worst is dismal recording their lowest score in Suncorp Super Netball history. Errant passes, mistimed leads and communication errors in the attacking third have wreaked havoc for the Magpies and must be addressed if they are to make finals.

Expectations:

If Collingwood can solidify their connections and do the little things right they could be a chance to contest for a spot in the finals.