A serious incident early in the match between Collingwood and Hawthorn saw star defender Jeremy Howe left incapacitated on the field. Just two minutes into the game, the 35-year-old collided with Jai Newcombe while pursuing a loose ball, resulting in a heavy fall.
The force of the impact caused Newcombe to join Howe on the ground shortly after, but the focus remained on Howe’s condition. Commentating for Fox Footy, David King remarked, “It’s a car crash… it is sickening to watch,” highlighting the extreme risks players face in the sport.
Replays showed that while Howe had aimed to secure the ball, he inadvertently collided heads with Newcombe. As play continued, medical staff rushed to attend to both players. Fortunately, Newcombe was able to stand and was cleared to return to the game after being assessed, whereas Howe had to be taken off the field on a stretcher.
This emotional scene had a profound effect on the Collingwood players, who gathered to support their teammate during the unsettling moment. King noted how challenging it can be for players to maintain focus in such distressing circumstances, emphasising the close-knit nature of the team.
Later reports confirmed that Howe had suffered a concussion and was being taken to hospital for further examination. King stated he did not believe Newcombe would face any disciplinary action from match review officials. In the meantime, Ned Long was brought into the game in substitution for Howe.
As the first quarter concluded, Hawthorn held a slight lead over Collingwood, 3.2 (20) to 2.3 (15). The incident underscored the inherent dangers of football, with both the physical and emotional toll it can take on players.