Melbourne Gawn Addresses On-Field Clash With Collingwood May

Melbourne's AFL captain Max Gawn downplayed a tense confrontation with Steven May following their narrow one-point loss to Collingwood, emphasizing the competitive nature of the game. Despite Melbourne's strong comeback from a 20-point deficit in the third quarter, missed opportunities and difficult conditions at the MCG's muddy city end contributed to their defeat. Key moments included Bailey Fritsch's missed shot while closely marked by Isaac Quaynor and Dan McStay's pivotal goal that helped Collingwood regain and maintain the lead. Josh Daicos earned the Neale Daniher medal for best on ground, narrowly edging out Jeremy Howe with his defensive efforts. Gawn dismissed notions of a 'hoodoo' against Collingwood, attributing the result to their ability to get over the line in a tight contest. The aftermath of the game saw visible discord between Gawn and May, though Gawn clarified it was part of the intense competitive instincts on display.