AFL Round 13: Melbourne Demons and Collingwood Magpies Clash on King's Birthday

In a highly anticipated match held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on June 9, 2025, the Melbourne Demons faced off against the Collingwood Magpies during the AFL Round 13 King's Birthday clash. The game commenced at 3:20 PM AEST, with live broadcasts available on Channel Seven and Fox Footy. This event not only featured a competitive sporting matchup but also included the Big Freeze slide, where celebrities such as Mark Taylor, Peter Daicos, and Alyssa Healy participated in a charity event aimed at raising funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research in honor of Neale Daniher, a former player and coach battling the illness.

The King's Birthday clash is a significant fixture in the AFL calendar, traditionally marked by intense rivalries and community engagement. According to the AFL's official website, this annual event aims to celebrate the contributions of the game to Australian culture while also supporting vital health initiatives. The Big Freeze campaign, initiated by Daniher, has become synonymous with this match day, drawing attention to the challenges faced by those living with MND.

As the match unfolded, the Collingwood Magpies managed to secure a crucial lead, capitalizing on their impressive counter-attack strategies and the standout performance of their players. At half-time, the Magpies led by eight points, with notable contributions from players like Brody Mihocek and Darcy Cameron. According to Jake Niall, a sports journalist with The Age, the Magpies’ efficiency in converting opportunities was a key factor in their performance, despite the Demons' strong defensive efforts.

In terms of player performances, the heavy tagging of Nick Daicos by the Demons’ Ed Langdon became a focal point of discussions among analysts. Former Collingwood premiership star Dale Thomas emphasized the need for the Magpies to better support Daicos against aggressive defensive tactics. “Yes, you do have to go out of your way and look after him,” Thomas noted, highlighting the strategic importance of managing high-profile players during critical matches.

The match was not without its controversies, particularly surrounding player conduct. Essendon’s Sam Durham faced scrutiny for a heavy bump on Carlton’s Adam Cerra, with the match review officer deeming it careless conduct. According to Marc McGowan, a sports reporter for The Age, Durham could accept a two-match ban unless he contests the decision. This incident sparked discussions regarding player safety and the evolving standards of conduct within the AFL, as coaches and analysts debated the implications of aggressive play in the modern game.

Overall, the AFL Round 13 King's Birthday match between the Demons and Magpies served as a platform not only for showcasing athletic prowess but also for raising awareness about significant health issues and fostering community spirit. The outcomes of such matches extend beyond the field, impacting local charities and highlighting the role of sports in social advocacy. As the AFL continues to navigate the complexities of player safety and community engagement, events like the King's Birthday clash will remain pivotal in shaping the league's identity and its contributions to society.

As the season progresses, the implications of this match will resonate, influencing team strategies and community involvement in the weeks to come. With the AFL season in full swing, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how teams adapt and prepare for upcoming challenges, both on and off the field.