Collingwood Forwards Will Hoskin-Elliott and Reef McInnes Face Setbacks in Tough Crows Clash

Hamstring and concussion concerns forced Collingwood to play with just three on the bench in the second half of Saturday’s match against Kuwarna (Adelaide).

The Magpies made their tactical sub change following the main break, as forward Will Hoskin-Elliott was unable to continue due to a hamstring injury.

The reigning premiers confirmed the change at the start of the third term, with Harvey Harrison brought into the game as a result of Hoskin-Elliott’s setback.

Collingwood’s injury concerns were compounded later in the quarter when spearhead Reef McInnes was ruled out from returning to the game due to a concussion.

McInnes took a knee to the back of the head while competing for the ball at ground level and eventually made his way off the field for a concussion test, which the 21-year-old subsequently failed.

McInnes will miss at least his side’s Round 11 clash with Fremantle as he enters the AFL’s mandatory 12-day concussion protocols.

“Reef’s got a concussion, so he’s going to be out for a period of time,” coach Craig McRae confirmed after the win. “Will’s got a low-grade hamstring (strain), which we’ll know more about tomorrow. But it’s been reported as a low-grade hamstring.”

Defender Isaac Quaynor suffered a suspected lower leg injury in the second term but was able to play out the game.

Collingwood’s injury woes could be eased over the coming weeks, with Tom Mitchell (foot), Beau McCreery (concussion), Brody Mihocek (hamstring), and Jack Bytel (concussion) potentially returning for the Dockers game.

Adelaide also made a sub change during the third term, with Lachie Sholl replaced by Ned McHenry for tactical purposes.