Collingwood Faces Injury Concerns Ahead of Qualifying Final: Bobby Hill Doubtful, Jeremy Howe Awaiting Scan
Collingwood’s premiership hopes have hit a stumbling block just days out from their Qualifying Final, with injury concerns to two key players—forward Bobby Hill and defender Jeremy Howe—threatening to derail the Magpies’ preparations.
The Magpies, who finished the home-and-away season at the top of the ladder, are set to face a formidable opponent in the finals opener. However, coach Craig McRae now faces a nervous wait on the fitness of two players who have been pivotal to Collingwood’s success in 2024.
Bobby Hill Doubtful
Speedy forward Bobby Hill is unlikely to line up in the Qualifying Final after pulling up sore following training earlier this week. Sources inside the club suggest Hill has been battling lingering muscle tightness, and the medical staff are reluctant to take any unnecessary risks with one of Collingwood’s most dynamic small forwards.
Hill has been a revelation since joining the Magpies, providing spark, pressure, and goal-scoring flair across the forward line. His absence would significantly reduce Collingwood’s ability to apply defensive pressure inside 50 while also limiting their scoring versatility.
McRae admitted the club was preparing for the likelihood of going into the Qualifying Final without Hill.
“Bobby has been fantastic for us all season, and obviously we’d love to have him out there. But finals footy is brutal, and we won’t risk his longer-term health. At this stage, it’s unlikely he’ll play.”
Jeremy Howe’s Adductor Worry
Adding to the Magpies’ concerns, experienced defender Jeremy Howe has been sent for scans after suffering tightness in his adductor during training. While Howe has not yet been ruled out, his availability remains in serious doubt.
The 34-year-old has been in superb form this season, playing a crucial role as a versatile defender who can both lock down opponents and launch attacking moves from the backline. His leadership and composure under pressure are highly valued, particularly in the cauldron of finals football.
Club doctors confirmed Howe would undergo a precautionary MRI scan, with results expected within the next 24 hours. McRae stressed the importance of making the right call.
“Jeremy is a warrior, and he’ll put his hand up no matter what. But we need to balance courage with common sense. If he’s not right, we’ll have to make a difficult decision.”
Selection Challenges
Should both Hill and Howe be unavailable, Collingwood’s selection panel will face some tough decisions. Younger players such as Reef McInnes and Finlay Macrae could be in line for finals opportunities, while Billy Frampton may be considered as a defensive replacement.
While the Magpies boast impressive depth, the timing of these injuries could not be worse. Finals football demands both talent and experience, and losing two players of Hill’s energy and Howe’s leadership could tilt the balance in what is expected to be a tight contest.
Teammates Rally
Despite the injury setbacks, senior players remain confident the Magpies have the resilience to adapt. Captain Darcy Moore emphasized the squad’s unity and focus.
“Obviously it’s not ideal to have injuries to important players, but we’ve built our game on system and belief. Whoever steps in will play their role, and that’s what finals footy is about—trusting each other.”
Midfield star Nick Daicos also offered words of encouragement, insisting the group is determined to rise to the challenge.
“Bobby and Jeremy are massive for us, but we can’t afford to dwell on who might be missing. Our focus is on bringing our best intensity and playing our brand of footy.”
Looking Ahead
With the finals campaign about to begin, Collingwood’s injury worries have injected an air of uncertainty into their preparations. The coming days will be crucial as the medical team works to determine the availability of Howe, while Hill appears almost certain to miss.
For Magpies fans, it is a nerve-wracking wait. For the team, it is yet another test of their resilience. If Collingwood can overcome these hurdles and secure a win in the Qualifying Final, it will be seen as a powerful statement of their premiership credentials.
