Magpies Overlook Bobby Hill for AFL Preliminary Final Against Lions: A Tough Call with Grand Final Hope
In a decision that’s stirred debate among Collingwood fans, the Magpies have overlooked Bobby Hill for their crucial AFL preliminary final against the Brisbane Lions at the MCG on Saturday, September 20, 2025. Coach Craig McRae confirmed the star small forward’s omission on Thursday, citing the need for match fitness after Hill’s extended absence due to personal reasons. While Hill has been training consistently this month, McRae emphasized that the timing simply wasn’t right for a high-stakes return, though he left the door ajar for a potential grand final appearance if the Pies advance.
Hill, the 2023 Norm Smith Medallist, has been sidelined since round 15, managing just one AFL appearance as a substitute in recent months. His absence stems from personal matters, which the club has kept private out of respect. Despite showing promise in training sessions, McRae described the selection as “really difficult,” explaining it was based on “a lot of little things” like Hill’s limited game time and the risk of throwing him into a prelim without full sharpness. “He’s done everything we asked, but we need him at his best,” McRae told reporters. The coach didn’t rule out Hill for a grand final decider, noting his electric form in the 2023 premiership win over the Lions—where Hill kicked four goals and earned best-afield honors.
Magpies’ Selection Strategy: Prioritizing Form and Experience
Collingwood’s team for the Lions clash reflects a blend of reliability and calculated risks. The Magpies have recalled premiership defender Jeremy Howe, who overcomes a groin injury to bolster the backline against Brisbane’s potent forward line, including the in-form Logan Morris. Key forward Brody Mihocek has been cleared after a shoulder knock, providing a much-needed tall target up front. Youngster Will Parker makes way for Howe, while emergencies include Dan McStay and retiring veteran Will Hoskin-Elliott.
This lineup underscores McRae’s focus on continuity for a side that’s defied expectations to reach the prelims. The Magpies finished the home-and-away season strongly, but overlooking Hill—a dynamic pressure forward known for his marking and goal sense—raises eyebrows. Fans on social media have mixed reactions, with some praising the pragmatic approach and others lamenting the loss of Hill’s X-factor against a Lions team that’s won their last three encounters, including a round 21 thriller where Morris booted six goals.
Stakes High in Magpies vs. Lions Rematch: History on the Line
The preliminary final pits two heavyweights: Collingwood, the 2023 premiers, against the 2024 flag winners Brisbane. It’s the fourth time this century the sides have met in a prelim or grand final, with the Magpies holding a recent edge—winning the last four before Brisbane’s round 21 upset. The Lions, fresh off a qualifying final win over Geelong, boast finals experience and a lethal attack, but Collingwood’s miserly defense (No. 1 for points against) could keep it tight.
For Hill, the wait continues, but his potential return in a grand final would add poetic drama—especially against his former club, where he played before crossing to the Pies in 2022. As the Magpies aim to channel their 2023 magic, this selection gamble could define their September fortunes. Kick-off is at 7:30 PM AEST—expect a classic.