Elliott to miss season start

COLLINGWOOD star Jamie Elliott will miss Round 1 after failing to take part in the Pies’ training session yesterday.

Elliott had hoped to prove his fitness today, with football boss Geoff Walsh earmarking the session as his D-Day ahead of the clash with the Western Bulldogs.

But Elliott did not train at a short session where Scott Pendlebury (achilles soreness) and Jordan De Goey (thigh) both trained strongly.

Elliott injured his ankle at training last month but admitted last weekend he was doubtful for Round 1.

Collingwood’s VFL side has a practice match tonight against VAFA side Old Xavierians but none of its AFL-listed players will play.

The Pies have up to 40 players fit and ready but are wary of last year where injury ravaged them early in the year.

Pendlebury pulled out of last week’s strong victory over Richmond with a tight achilles but is adamant he will play.

De Goey is also sure to play in Round 1, while Brodie Grundy played well against the Tigers after a tight calf.

– JON RALPH