Collingwood’s New Strategy for Darcy Moore’s Recovery
Collingwood is considering a new approach to managing Darcy Moore’s latest injury, as the premiership captain faces another setback due to a soft tissue injury. Moore has been sidelined with a moderate-grade hamstring injury, which he sustained during last week’s 10-point victory over West Coast. This latest injury means he will be out for at least a month and potentially longer.
Moore has had a challenging year, having previously missed a month of action due to a similar hamstring injury earlier this year. He also spent time on the sidelines during the pre-season due to a calf strain. The recurring issues have led the Collingwood coaching staff to rethink their strategy for his recovery.
Coach Craig McRae acknowledged the frustration that Moore has experienced this season, both on and off the field. “It’s been a frustrating year for him to get on the paddock, and then on the field,” McRae said. “Clearly we need to do something different, because what we’re doing right now – given his body feedback – he’s not capable of doing it at the level which is required.”
McRae emphasized that the team will take a progressive approach to Moore’s rehabilitation. However, the exact timeline for his return remains uncertain. “It might be a four-to-six (weeks) type injury, it could be a six-to-eight,” he explained. “We might just weigh up what that means in terms of, ‘OK does he need to train for a bit longer to be fit and available? Does he need to play a VFL game?’ I don’t know yet. We’ve got to work all that out.”
Jamie Elliott’s Season-Ending Injury
In addition to Moore’s injury, star forward Jamie Elliott will miss the rest of the season after rupturing his ACL during the win against West Coast. Elliott, who is contracted for next year, has shown a positive attitude despite the setback. McRae praised his resilience and leadership within the team.
“I saw him on crutches in the building again today. He has an operation Tuesday. It’s heartbreaking,” McRae said. “The guy is a bit of a spiritual leader amongst our forwards and the broader group. And to see him go down – I know my heart sank late in the game. I’m sure all our fans’ did, because he’s a fan favourite. I’m surprised how positive he’s been.”
Nick Daicos’ Status Uncertain
Nick Daicos is expected to face the Western Bulldogs on Saturday night, despite undergoing scans following the win over West Coast. McRae mentioned that several players went for scans this week, including himself. “I popped in for a couple on my shoulder as well – that was a revolving door,” he joked.
Scott Pendlebury’s Managed Minutes
Scott Pendlebury, who recently broke the VFL/AFL games record, is set to play in his 434th match on Saturday. However, McRae indicated that Pendlebury may be placed on managed minutes due to the emotional impact of the recent milestone.
“I’m very much aware of the emotional, I suppose, emptiness (on the back of last week),” McRae said. “I’m having constant conversations with Pendles and how his body shaped. We might manage his minutes in the game somewhere. Not sure what that looks like at the moment.”
