Efficient preparation of a linear, symmetrical, metal–metal bonded tricobalt compound; should we believe there is a bond stretch isomer?

Abstract
The synthesis in 42% yield of a linear, symmetrical, fully Co–Co bonded [2.3178(9) Å] trinuclear complex [Co 3 (dpa) 4 Cl 2 ] [Hdpa = bis(2-pyridyl)amine] is reported, and its crystal structure presented.