Bobby Hill Returns to Magpies Training, Coach Cautions on Senior Football Prospects

Collingwood forward Bobby Hill has returned to Magpies training, but his coach has tried to set realistic expectations on his chances of playing senior football soon.

The 2023 Norm Smith has played three VFL matches this year and his most recent AFL appearance was in round 22 last season.

Asked how Hill was faring, coach Craig McRae said: "Truthfully, battling."

"He's a work in progress, but it's nice to have him in the building.

"He's a long way away from playing footy … but again, when he's in our building, at least we get some opportunities to make him feel that he's loved and appreciated."

You can read more about McRae's thoughts on Hill, and the prospects of Brayden Maynard of overcoming his shoulder injury in our story:

There are no late changes for either side.

But there are some interesting ins and outs from the originally named teams.

The Dockers have omitted Jaeger O'Meara, Corey Wagner and Oscar McDonald.

In come key midfielder Caleb Serong, speedy midfielder Matthew Johnson and key defender Brennan Cox come in to strengthen the Freo line-up.

For Geelong, there is one out, and it's a big one. Bailey Smith is out of the Cats line-up due to illness.

There's no denying that Smith will be a big miss.

In the last six games for the Cats, he has been averaging a hefty 34 disposals, seven inside 50s and 5.5 clearances. Not bad.

Former Sun Jack Bowes comes back in.

Hello, good evening and welcome to ABC's live online coverage of round 15 in the AFL.

The round kicks off tonight - and what a way to start!

We head to Perth Stadium for the match of the round, with top of the table Fremantle hosting on third-placed Geelong.

There are lots of big forwards who might be looking at a few goals this evening, and a few small forwards who might be getting snap-happy from the pockets as well.

My name is Andrew McGarry, and I will be bringing you all the action tonight.

Let's jump in!