Sydney small forward Ben McGlynn tackles Collingwood on Saturday with a mental edge mostly lacking amongst his teammates – recent memory of what it feels like to defeat the Magpies.

A record nine-game winning streak has Sydney well placed with four rounds remaining – top spot on the AFL ladder and a game clear of their nearest rivals Adelaide and Collingwood.

But on the weekend at ANZ Stadium they will be aiming to end a 10-match losing streak against the Magpies that dates back to 2006.

“Last year we got within eight points and really gave it a go. We’ve definitely improved and they’re still one of the top teams of the competition,” McGlynn said ahead of his 100th game.

“They definitely haven’t gone backwards and we respect that – but we know we’ve improved as a team and we’ll give it our all.”

McGlynn said the streak hadn’t been discussed amongst the players and denied the clash – traditionally a blockbuster but now with added intrigue given both sides’ places on the ladder – had any extra importance.

But the 27-year-old admitted “it’s always a good feeling to beat Collingwood” – something he managed a handful of times with Hawthorn.

McGlynn played 44 games in four seasons with the Hawks – but only three in the club’s premiership year of 2008.

Another one of Sydney’s success stories at the trade table, he joined the Swans at the end of the 2009 season and has become a regular in their side.

“It’s been great to have the opportunity to play regular senior footy – and (coach) John (Longmire) and the other coaches have really put confidence in me,” said McGlynn, who is contracted with the Swans until the end of the 2104 season.

McGlynn said this was the key behind the Swans’ noted ability to get the most out of players from other clubs.

“They get you here to play a role within the team and not just to fill up a spot on the list,” he said.

“As a player, if you’ve got that belief from the coaches, that goes a long way to believing in yourself and your own ability on the field.

“Also the leadership here, led by Goodesy (Adam Goodes) and Jarrad McVeigh – it’s a pretty strong group and they’re very honest and driven.”