A rib injury compelled Collingwood to substitute veteran midfielder Scott Pendlebury during Sunday’s match against Hawthorn. Pendlebury sustained a back knock during a clash with Hawk Josh Weddle in the second quarter of the game at Adelaide Oval.
Despite the hit, Pendlebury initially chose to stay on the field but later received medical attention before being escorted to the club’s rooms just before halftime.
Collingwood later confirmed Pendlebury’s substitution from the game, with senior wingman Steele Sidebottom brought in as the tactical replacement. The severity of Pendlebury’s rib injury, possibly including a fracture, could sideline him for several weeks.
Coach Craig McRae commented post-game, stating uncertainty about the seriousness of the injury, given Pendlebury’s pre-existing soreness before the game. With a significant break of 13 days before their next match, the team will assess Pendlebury’s condition during this time.
Fortunately, Collingwood has a bye scheduled for the following week, potentially allowing the 36-year-old Pendlebury to avoid missing any game time.
After their break, Collingwood will confront Port Adelaide in Round 6.
Pendlebury had accumulated six possessions and scored a goal before Sidebottom took over. Sidebottom returns to the field after being rested in Round 3.
