Collingwood forward Bobby Hill has helped his side chase down a 54-point third quarter deficit and overcome a frantic final moments to pinch a one-point win over North Melbourne on Sunday afternoon.
The Magpies trailed by 48 points at the main break, with a five goal margin still in place at the last change before storming back with a six goal to one final term to run out 18.11 (119) - 19.4 (118) winners.
Hill slotted three in the fourth quarter and forced the final lead change with three minutes remaining after sailing high to mark from short range, before his side held on and escape desperate late efforts from a Kangaroos side looking for their second win of 2024.
North was without co-captain Jy Simpkin after the hero to their maiden win against the Eagles last weekend was withdrawn late after suffering a minor hamstring strain in their final preparations to face the reigning premiers.
Hill led for the match with 5.0 in front of goal across the afternoon.
His final-minutes pluck wasn't his best for the day after soaring for a mark of the year contender to kick his second.
BOBBY HILL THAT IS OUT OF THIS WORLD! 😍@VirginAustralia | #AFLNorthPies pic.twitter.com/557Dzt7XFF
— AFL (@AFL) June 16, 2024
"What a big time player," teammate Nick Daicos said of Hill speaking to Fox Footy after the final siren.
"(I'm) so lucky to play with him. Before the game he was talking to me about the set shot routine, and he thinks he might need to change his, but I think it's working."
The win pushed the Pies into the top four for the first time as they work past a 0-3 start to their premiership defence.
