“I was trying to think of words as to why I’ve probably kept going and I think it’s [because] I’m competitive,” Pendlebury told me.
“I strive for success in everything I do.” I’ll utilize the rulebook to my advantage if necessary.
“I love that feeling when the siren goes [after a win] and when that feeling goes I won’t love [playing] any more.”
That will remain the motivational reason for the dual premiership player and Norm Smith medalist to continue into next season, as it will, rather than trying to hold on for 33 more games to pass the 432-game mark established by former North Melbourne player Brent Harvey.
“Getting to 400 games was not a goal. “I just want to play because I enjoy it,” Pendlebury explained.
“I’ll enjoy this for 400 and not worry too much about trying to chase down a record or things like that because the love of the game is what got me to this point.”
Collingwood’s season hangs in the balance as they try to restore it and make the finals.
On Wednesday, the 400-game club (from left) included Michael Tuck, Shaun Burgoyne, Scott Pendlebury, Dustin Fletcher, and Brent Harvey.
Pendlebury understands what is at risk, but he refuses to call it a sudden death final.
“We understand what we’re playing for. We needed a win to keep alive this season, and it was fantastic to regain some form against Richmond,” he remarked.
Pendlebury is no stranger to such circumstances, having spent nine seasons as Collingwood’s captain and appearing in 31 finals. His mindset, on the other hand, ensured that every game he played was fraught with significance.
“I’ve almost put a little bit of pressure on myself that it is the most important game and you have to perform because of all the things that great people have said about how you having to perform every week,” according to him.
That he never exhibits signs of pressure has been his trademark, with his unflustered walk and near-perfect disposal raising the heart rate of every Collingwood fan who has followed him throughout his career.
But, while he appears to be football’s David Gower, his thinking is as sharp as his opponents.
“It certainly feels faster when I’m out there. Pendlebury stated, “I don’t feel like I have as much time as it may appear.”He’s noticed how swift and fit today’s athletes are, so his only solution has been to prepare as much as possible before games to avoid surprises. It works. He will enter game 400 as the highest-rated player on the field at three-quarter-time in game 399 versus Richmond before being substituted to preserve him fresh for the moment ahead.
On Wednesday, he was surrounded not only by family but also by four of the five members of the 400-game club, with Kevin Bartlett absent due to a medical appointment. It was a somber moment for Pendlebury when Harvey, Michael Tuck, Shaun Burgoyne, and Dustin Fletcher requested his signature on their jumpers.
On Saturday night, he joins the game’s most exclusive club, having started his legendary preparation on Thursday by turning off the phone and taking a mental break. “It’s surreal,” Pendlebury explained.
Blues will face no further action after McKay’s head knock.
The AFL will not take any further action over Carlton’s handling of Harry McKay following a head knock against North Melbourne in round 19.
Harry McKay of Carlton takes a heavy blow against North Melbourne in round 19.
The Blues were chastised for their handling of McKay’s concussion test against the Roosters. After the Blues took several minutes to remove McKay from the field, the league determined that the club had violated concussion guidelines, but acknowledged that club medics were dealing with many injuries at the time.
McKay was cleared of concussion, returned to the field against North, and was selected to play against Port Adelaide last Friday, but after withdrawing from that game, the AFL stated that it will conduct additional investigations.
An AFL spokesman stated on Wednesday: “The AFL has completed its inquiry with Carlton about Harry McKay’s management in the lead-up to last Friday night’s game and thereafter.
“The AFL is comfortable with the medical management of McKay and his availability for selection this weekend will be determined by Carlton.”
The way clubs handle players who have suffered head injuries has becoming increasingly contentious.
The Brisbane Lions were fined $40,000, with $10,000 suspended, for how they handled a concussion involving star defender Harris Andrews.
