Magpie Star Recruit Saves Season After Early Struggles
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Collingwood Magpies defender Charlie Houston is navigating a challenging period in his AFL career, experiencing a noticeable dip in his statistical output in 2025.While the team continues to push for premiership contention, Houston’s personal numbers have seen a decline, prompting introspection and a reliance on the club’s supportive surroundings.
A statistical shift for the Magpies Defender
Houston’s average disposals per game have fallen from above 20 in each of the past three seasons to 16.9 per game in 2025. This marks a meaningful departure from his previous consistent performances. His primary weapon, his kicking, has also been less prominent, with his average number of kicks per game dropping to 10.8, a stark contrast to the above 15 kicks he averaged since 2022.
This season has seen houston record fewer than 10 kicks in five matches, a statistic that highlights his reduced involvement in general play. In the three preceding seasons, he achieved this low kick count in just three games combined.
The Impact of Teammate Roles
The tactical adjustments within the Magpies’ structure have also played a role in Houston’s altered role. The way Josh Daicos operates as a rebounder from defense often leaves Houston in a more defensive position,limiting his opportunities to push up the ground and impact the game offensively.
Despite the personal challenges, Houston has found a crucial source of support and viewpoint in his teammates, particularly Lachie Schultz and Dan McStay.Schultz, who openly admitted to a tough start in his first season at Collingwood, has recaptured his best form in his second year, offering Houston valuable insights.
“I speak to ‘Shooter’ [Schultz] regularly, and even ‘D-Mac’ [Dan McStay] because in their first year at the ‘Pies they went through similar stuff, not finding [the ball] as much or just being at a new club, learning how everyone else plays and how the ‘Pies play,” Houston shared.
These conversations have served as a powerful reminder that his coach and teammates have faith in his abilities. The broader AFL community,Houston believes,still recognizes his talent,even if it hasn’t been fully unleashed in the black and white jumper this season.
“I know it would be nice to impact the game more but getting out there with the boys playing in the defence, it’s awesome,” Houston stated, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s defensive structure.
Coach’s Guidance and Future Focus
head coach craig McRae’s belief in houston is proving instrumental in helping him focus on the present rather than dwelling on past performances. Houston’s desire to contribute more offensively is evident, but McRae’s counsel encourages patience and trust in the process.
“I always say to ‘Fly’, ’I want to get involved more, I want to get involved more. I want to make sure I’m impacting games’,” Houston admitted. “He sort of restrains me a little bit, just tells me to calm down.”
This supportive environment, coupled with Houston’s own resilience, suggests that while his 2025 season might potentially be statistically different, his commitment to the Magpies and his belief in his own capabilities remain strong.
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