AFL premiers Collingwood feel they are "building nicely" in their flag defence as they prepare to take on high-flying Port Adelaide in round six, star midfielder Nick Daicos says.
The Pies endured a rocky 0-3 start to the new campaign but have since steadied the ship with successive wins over Brisbane and Hawthorn.
"It was an interesting start to the season," Daicos reflected on Monday.
"We probably didn't start the way we wanted to in terms of wins and losses but I think the foundation of our game was there.
"We've kept building on that and we've been rewarded in the last couple of weeks with wins.
"I think we're heading in the right direction for sure and we're starting to see the DNA of our game come to fruition."
An early-season bye in round five has given Collingwood an extended break in recent days, priming them for Saturday's Power clash at the MCG.
"We haven't played there in a couple of weeks, so it will be good to get back there," Daicos said.
"Port Adelaide have been going really strong so we'll come in and prepare really well.
"We know they're going to be tough to beat but hopefully it's a great game."
Daicos was coy when asked where he will line-up against Port, who have employed a tagger against him at stages in recent meetings between the sides.
The 21-year-old expects a tough midfield battle as the Magpies' high-powered engine room faces off against Power guns Jason Horne-Francis, Connor Rozee and Zak Butters.
"(It's a) star-studded midfield and they all bring their X-factor, pace, agility," Daicos said.
"We're going to have to be on our A-game and I'm hoping it will be a great battle."
Collingwood veteran Scott Pendlebury remains in doubt to face Port, after damaging ribs in the win over Hawthorn in Gather Round.
"He's got to prove his fitness this week and has probably got a few boxes to tick with training and whatnot, but he'll give himself every chance," Daicos said.
"He's the ultimate professional and someone we all look up to for his professionalism."
Daicos was speaking on Monday as he and Collingwood teammates prepared and served meals to Melbourne's homeless and disadvantaged community at the Magpie Nest Cafe.
