Collingwood veteran Steele Sidebottom has expressed confidence in Bobby Hill potentially making a return in the preliminary final against the Brisbane Lions at the MCG on Saturday. Hill’s recent absence from the field, only appearing once as a substitute in the last three months due to personal reasons, has raised questions about his readiness for such a significant match. However, the 2023 Norm Smith Medallist has intensified his training efforts to ensure he is fit for selection.
Both Hill and teammate Jeremy Howe, who is recovering from an adductor injury, participated in last Friday’s main training session as they aim to demonstrate their fitness ahead of the crucial match. “I guess they’ll both be putting their hand up,” Sidebottom remarked. He added that the final decision lies with the coaching and fitness staff, depending on their assessment of the players’ readiness.
Sidebottom acknowledged that while he was unsure if Hill had done enough to warrant a spot in the team, he has proven himself capable of performing under pressure. “I think his last kind of block he’s been much more consistent in what he’s been able to do,” Sidebottom noted. “If he’s to play, then he’ll add some flair to our game.” Hill’s pivotal role in Collingwood’s 2023 grand final victory against Brisbane underscores his potential impact in high-stakes situations.
The veteran midfielder also emphasized that every player has an opportunity to shine in significant moments. “Whether it’s Bobby, whether it’s someone else, I think everyone’s going to have their chance to be a part of a moment,” he said. “I’ll be more than confident that if a moment arises for anyone, that they’ll be able to capture it and grab it with both hands.”
Another player, Brody Mihocek, appeared to be struggling with an injury during training. Sidebottom expressed optimism about Mihocek’s potential to participate in the game, indicating that the team has time to manage his recovery without rushing him back into action. “Clearly, he wasn’t 100 percent, but we’ve had a bit of time, and probably didn’t need to rush it as well,” he explained.
Collingwood, known for being the most experienced team in the league, faced criticism earlier this season after a disappointing loss to the Greater Western Sydney in the opening round. Despite this, the team has silenced some of its doubters with recent performances. “I didn’t read too much into it,” Sidebottom reflected on the scrutiny. “I think it probably only comes out when we’re struggling and not playing well. So hopefully it’s not an excuse come Saturday afternoon.”
As the preliminary final approaches, all eyes will be on Hill and his teammates as they prepare to face Brisbane, with a place in the grand final on the line.
