Collingwood’s 12-point loss to Essendon at the MCG on Friday night was further soured by a pectoral injury to key forward Brody Mihocek in the closing stages.
Mihocek scored a much-needed goal for the Magpies in the final term as his side tried to mount one of its trademark comebacks.
But disaster soon struck as Mihocek attempted to shepherd Bombers defender Jayden Laverde in the goal-square — the 31-year-old immediately grimacing in pain while clutching at his chest.
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Brody Mihocek looked to suffer a pectoral injury in the final term. Fox Footy
After taking himself off the field and heading straight down the race with the club doctor, the Pies later confirmed that Mihocek had injured his pectoral muscle and would take no further part in the match.
The severity of the injury will give more clarity as to how long Mihocek could sit on the sidelines, however surgery would all but likely end his season.
Speaking post-match, Collingwood coach Craig McRae did not have a positive update.
“Brody looks like he’s going to need surgery,” he told media.
“He’ll most likely be out for the season.
“We’ve got to get scans to officially make that the case so that will happen shortly and then as we always do, we’ll [show] love and support and get around our player — rally together.
“It is what it is sometimes.”
Brody Mihocek had no power in his right arm as he made his way off the ground. Fox Footy
The Bombers’ 13.14 (92) to 12.8 (80) victory was the side’s first win against a top-eight team in 2024. The result also catapults the team into third place on the league ladder.
A slow start from the Bombers — compounded by three first-quarter goals from Magpie Jack Crisp — saw them trail at the first break.
However, after finding form in the second term, the Bombers produced a dominant second half to assume control.
Six consecutive goals from Essendon looked to have tied up the match before Collingwood scored four late goals to get Bombers’ fans’ hearts racing.
Magpies defender Isaac Quaynor also sat out the end of the match with a foot injury.