Oleg Markov wasn't meant to be playing at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night.
He was excluded from the 26-man squad, which included emergencies Wil Parker, Charlie West and Harry DeMattia.
And when Scott Pendlebury (illness) and Bobby Hill (personal) were withdrawn from the North Melbourne game, Markov was at Bunnings preparing to do some flooring on a house renovation.
But a call from Collingwood coach Craig McRae four hours before the first bounce changed his plans, and in his words, it was for something "definitely better".
"I'm just really grateful to be here, I'm just having fun (and) all the boys know that," Markov told Fox Footy post-game.
"I don't kick many goals; I would've done the โbaby cradle', but he's already starting to walk. He throws his hands up, and he marches. That's to my little one, Lenny!
"I got the call at about 3:30 pm today, I was walking out of Bunnings. I was meant to do some flooring, I'm doing a โreno'. I guess playing at Marvel is definitely better than doing flooring. I'm very grateful I got the call (to play) from Fly โฆ I actually missed it, my hands were full!"
Markov started the match as the substitute, but was injected quickly into the contest as star defender Brayden Maynard went down with a foot injury.
The former Sun and Tiger collected 13 disposals, three marks and a goal in the 45-point victory.
"He's got a great personality โฆ I just thought: โGeez, I love coaching this kid'. It doesn't matter what it is, he'll come in and do it. And then he gets to the ground and says: โI couldn't hear a word you said!'" McRae said post-game.
"It's great to have guys like him that just want to come in, and (are) all for the team."
