Collingwood’s hopes of fielding a near full-strength side for Friday night’s blockbuster showdown against arch-rivals Carlton have taken a dramatic turn, with three veteran players ruled out in a single day — a major setback confirmed by head coach Craig McRae.
The biggest blow came during Tuesday’s training session, where star midfielder Jordan De Goey suffered a concussion after a collision with teammate and vice-captain Brayden Maynard. The contact, which club officials described as “friendly fire” during an innocuous drill, has now forced De Goey into AFL concussion protocols — sidelining him for at least 12 days and ruling him out of the high-stakes MCG clash.
“It was just a competitive moment in training,” McRae said. “Unfortunately Jordan copped some high contact and will now follow all the proper concussion guidelines. It’s a big loss.”
Adding to the carnage, veteran Steele Sidebottom missed Tuesday’s training due to illness and is now considered doubtful to line up against the Blues. The 308-game premiership player had been expected to provide crucial leadership and experience.
Forward Lachie Schultz, who was tipped to return this week from a minor hamstring injury, has also been ruled out after falling ill, delaying his comeback for at least another round.
While there was some positive news with Brayden Maynard cleared to return from a shoulder injury and set to play Friday, McRae admitted the triple absence presents a major test for the squad’s depth.
“It’s disappointing timing, but that’s football. We’ve got a ‘next man up’ mindset and full confidence in whoever comes in,” McRae added.
The undermanned Pies will now need to dig deep as they prepare to face a surging Carlton outfit in front of what’s expected to be a packed MCG crowd.
