Star ruck duo Patrick Ryder and David Hille will join a raft of big name Bombers for their first 2010 pre-season game when Essendon takes on Melbourne this Saturday.
 
General manager of football operations, Paul Hamilton, said the Challenge game - which is being played at Visy Park at 1pm, Saturday 27th February - will be the first time Ryder and Hille have played together in an official game since ANZAC Day 2009.
 
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""It will be great to see David and Paddy have a run together ahead of the start of the 2010 season next month,"" he said.
 
""David's knee is getting stronger each day and he looks ready to take this next step while we are confident Paddy's daughter will have been born.
 
""As a ruck duo they will cause other teams serious trouble and we are excited about having them out their together.""
 
 
Hamilton said other key Bombers - including Courtenay Dempsey, Jason Laycock and David Myers - were also likely to play their first pre-season game.
 
Hamilton said that players not selected for the Challenge Cup game will play a practice match against a Richmond second-18 team at 2pm, Friday 26th February ay Highgate Reserve, Craigeburn (cnr Grand Blvd and Cleveland Drive - Mel 386 J3). Please Note: Fans are welcome to attend but there will be no public facilties at the oval (including no shade, seating or toilets).
 
""We would love to see a big crowd at both games,"" Hamilton said.
 
""The Challenge match against the Demons will naturally have plenty of interest but the practice game against Richmond's second-18 will also be a great chance for fans to get a good look at some of our young players of the future.""
 
Ticket information: General admission tickets to Saturday's Challenge game are available at the gate. Adults - $10, Concession - $5, juniors (6-15) - $2, under-6 - free and family (two adults and two juniors) - $20. Members can present their 2010 membership card at the gate for free access to general admission (subject to capacity). Those who have not yet received their membership card must visit the marquee (near gate 5) to confirm their details and will receive a free entry slip.
 
Friday's practice match at Craigeburn is free.
 
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