Devastating updates: was never a chance’: Goalsneak Hill ruled out of qualifying final
“Devastating updates: was never a chance’: Goalsneak Hill ruled out of qualifying final.”
Devastating Updates: ‘Was Never a Chance’—Goalsneak Hill Ruled Out of Qualifying Final
In a crushing blow for Collingwood Magpies fans, star goalsneak Bobby Hill has officially been ruled out of their upcoming Qualifying Final. The club confirmed that Hill missed the team’s final major training session ahead of Thursday’s clash with the Adelaide Crows due to pressing family matters. As coach Craig McRae put it, “He won’t be available (for Thursday) … he was never a chance.” (News.com.au)
What’s Behind the Setback?
Hill’s absence stems from his need to attend to personal family commitments—a choice met with full support from the club. McRae emphasized that Hill “has some family stuff today,” underlining the Magpies’ understanding stance during this sensitive period (News.com.au).
Importantly, this omission wasn’t due to a health issue or injury—but a deliberate decision where Hill “was never a chance” to participate in the immediate match (News.com.au).
Despite the Ruled-Out Status, Hope Remains
Despite this knockout for the qualifying final, McRae conveyed reason for optimism. The Norm Smith Medallist has been “training exceptionally well,” regularly participating in match simulations, and edging closer to full match fitness. McRae expressed an upbeat sentiment: “One little step, Bobby, is a step closer,” pointing to the significant strides Hill has made in training over the past week (News.com.au).
He highlighted Hill’s progress: “He’s taken a few big strides this week … we’re excited to have him back smiling,” signaling hope that the goalsneak might rejoin the lineup later in the finals series (News.com.au).
Team Stability Amid Hill’s Absence
While Hill’s unavailability is certainly a setback, Collingwood appears well-prepared to manage the change. Coach McRae confirmed Beau McCreery is fit to play after displaying his fitness in training. McRae was a bit more guarded on Dan McStay’s status, but reiterated confidence in the available group to carry the load (News.com.au).
The Bigger Picture for Collingwood
Losing a key forward like Hill for a Qualifying Final naturally sends ripples through the team’s finals strategy. Yet, McRae’s acknowledgement that Hill was “never a chance” suggests this outcome was anticipated, not last-minute—providing the team a window to adjust their structure ahead of kickoff (News.com.au).
Moreover, Hill actively engaged with the coach in recent weeks, asking to keep his season alive. McRae responded by managing expectations while keeping the door open, helping maintain morale. “We’re rapt to have him back in our program and good to see him smiling again,” McRae remarked (News.com.au).
Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Reason for absence | Family matters, fully supported by the club |
| Playing status | Ruled out of the qualifying final, “never a chance” to play |
| Fitness & form | Training exceptionally well, involved in match simulations |
| Possible return | Expected to return later in finals |
| Team readiness | Beau McCreery confirmed fit; Dan McStay uncertain |
| Coach’s stance | Supportive and optimistic about Hill’s return |
Word‑Count Check
This piece runs to approximately 600 words, providing detailed context and insight into Hill’s absence, implications for Collingwood, and what lies ahead for the season.
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