Collingwood suffers another injury setback ahead of Thursday night’s clash with Carlton at the MCG, but resists rushing back star Bobby Hill. Meanwhile, the Blues prepare to recall key defenders and revive their storied rivalry against the dominant Magpies.
Collingwood’s Injury Challenges
Coach Craig McRae announces that midfielder Steele Sidebottom sustains a hip pointer injury during the recent loss to Fremantle, ruling him out of the upcoming match. He joins Jordan De Goey on the sidelines due to concussion protocols.
“He got a knock on the hip pointer, so he won’t play,” McRae explains. “There’s quite a lot of bleeding there, and he has limited movement.”
The team eyes replacements including Ed Allan, Wil Parker, William Hayes, and Lachie Sullivan. Persistent goal-kicking struggles continue, with Collingwood ranking near the bottom in scoring after managing just five goals in wet conditions against Fremantle.
McRae debates whether the issue stems from personnel or structure but confirms no fast-track for Bobby Hill, the 2023 Norm Smith medallist. Hill builds fitness after personal matters sidelined him over summer.
“Bobby follows a pre-season plan with long-term focus,” McRae states. Defender Jeremy Howe trains forward, potentially shifting to attack when captain Darcy Moore recovers from hamstring trouble. Small forward Jamie Elliott must step up, having kicked only five goals in five games. Nick Daicos, nursing a corked calf, prepares for his 100th game.
McRae praises Daicos highly: “What a player, what a professional. He does things I haven’t seen others do. He has every attribute to be one of the best players of all time.”
Carlton Boosts Defensive Lineup
Blues coach Michael Voss confirms key defenders Jacob Weitering and Harry Dean return after concussion recoveries. Both train fully this week under protocols.
“They will both be available,” Voss says. Captain Patrick Cripps joins training with his right hand taped from a knock against Adelaide but shows no hindrance.
Voss considers recalling midfielder George Hewett to tag Daicos, a matchup Hewett has handled before.
Voss Calls for Rivalry Renewal
With Collingwood winning seven of the last eight encounters and 19 of 23 since 2013, Voss urges his side to step up.
“We step into the rivalry,” Voss declares. “Past players text me about its value. We need to play our A game and take a bigger role for the rivalry to thrive.”
Despite a tough start with one win, Voss’s premiership dream endures: “This lifelong journey began at age 12, watching the 1987 cup lift with my pop.”
