Footy fans have criticized Collingwood star Nick Daicos for allegedly exaggerating an off-the-ball incident involving Western Bulldogs defender Taylor Duryea. The 21-year-old Daicos was observed clutching his jaw after the supposed contact, leading to Duryea being reported for striking. However, some AFL personalities, including Brian Taylor and Matthew Richardson, suggested that a fine would be adequate punishment.
Video footage circulating online shows Daicos, known for his silky skills, seemingly making the most of the contact during the game at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne on Friday night. This led to widespread commentary on social media, with many accusing the Collingwood player of ‘staging’ to win free kicks.
Radio presenter Brian Peel humorously remarked, ‘And the Gold Logie goes too,’ while another fan bluntly called Daicos ‘Nick “Princess” Daicos,’ suggesting he should be reported for his alleged theatrics. A third commenter facetiously awarded Daicos ‘3 Brownlow points’ for his performance, jokingly dubbing it the ‘year’s best dive.’
Duryea chose to remain silent after the game, leading to some awkward moments on Channel 7 when he was seen standing in the background in the sheds while commentators Mitch Cleary and Abbey Holmes discussed the clash involving Daicos. Eventually, Holmes asked Duryea for his thoughts, to which he jokingly responded, ‘I can’t comment, can I?’
The win was crucial for the Bulldogs, who now occupy the 10th spot in the standings after a strong team performance, particularly in the final quarter against the usually fast-finishing Magpies, who managed just one behind.
‘We struggled to contain Nick [Daicos] early in the game, so we adjusted our approach in the third quarter, which worked out well,’ commented coach Luke Beveridge.
He also praised the performances of Marcus Bontempelli and Adam Treloar in the midfield, noting their significant contributions under fatigue. Bontempelli, the team’s inspirational captain, led by example with 38 disposals, 10 clearances, and two goals.
After the 18-point loss, defending premiers Collingwood face the possibility of dropping out of the top eight depending on other results this weekend.
