Essendon VFL will play a curtain raiser against the Footscray Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium this Friday, with the first bounce at 4:05pm AEST.

Initially slated for Sunday afternoon, the VFL Bombers will now face off against the Bulldogs ahead of the AFL fixture between the two clubs at Marvel Stadium on the same night.

Fans looking to attend the VFL curtain raiser must hold a valid ticket to the AFL game, with gate five to be open from 3:45pm for access.

Limited areas of level one will be open for the VFL game, with patrons to move to either their reserved seats or the general admission area at the conclusion of the game.

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ESSENDON VFL v FOOTSCRAY

Friday, April 12, 4:05pm AEST @ Marvel Stadium

Gates open: 3:45pm*

*Attendees must have a valid ticket to the AFL game beginning at 7:40pm.