Essendon captain, Matthew Lloyd, today joined Western Bulldogs' Robert Murphy, AFL Chief Executive Officer Andrew Demetriou and Telstra Dome's Ian Collins to discuss Friday's Bushfire Appeal game at the Dome.
Lloyd and Murphy revealed the change in venue from Darwin will allow more players to line-up for the clash.
""The coaches are going through the team this afternoon but there will probably be another five players who will play in the game, including myself, who wouldn't have been otherwise,"" Lloyd said.
""Apart from just the travel there's no doubt part of what we are playing for, being part of the showcase and giving something back (to the community), has definitely had a fair bit to do with it for some of the players.""
Scott Gumbleton will also be named later this week to play for the Bombers on Friday night.
Demetriou recognised the generosity of Telstra Dome, NAB and Ticketmaster saying that all proceeds from the game - which is expected to exceed $1 million - will be donated.
""We just ask all football supporters, even if you don't support a football club, just come along because every dollar that you spend through the gate will go directly to the bushfire relief fund,"" Demetriou said.
""Every minute that passes this money becomes more urgently needed. I hope we can break the all-time attendance record at the Telstra Dome for an NAB match - it would great if we get over 50,000.""
Lloyd said the bushfires had personally touched Essendon's players, coaches and staff deeply.
""From an Essendon Football Club point of view you would be amazed at the 18, 19, 20 year-olds - all they are talking about is what can we do to help these people being affected,"" he said.
""We have all been touched by this (the fires) and we want a sell-out and to really make a night of this on Friday night.""
Essendon members and supporters can donate to the Victoria Bushfire Relief Fund at any NAB Branch, or if you are registered for NAB internet banking you can donate via 'Pay Anyone'.
Victoria Bushfire Relief Fund
· BSB: 082-001
· Account: 860 046 797
Please note: Essendon members can also collect their 2009 members caps if they present their redemption card to membership department on Friday night. The membership tent will be open from 6pm on the concourse.
