THE children of a man killed when a car ploughed into him on the side of the Western Ring Road will run out on to the field with Essendon in a tribute from their dad’s favourite team.

A woman appeared in court today accused of running down the Werribee father of three, Alan Dunlop.

Mr Dunlop died at the scene after a car allegedly driven by 27-year-old Tara Brennan crashed into him after he had stopped in the emergency lane feeling unwell about 10.40am on Saturday.

Members of Mr Dunlop’s devastated family were in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court for Ms Brennan’s brief filing hearing.

Mr Dunlop’s brother-in-law, Aaron Millichip, said it was an extremely difficult time for the family.

Mr Dunlop was an Essendon fan and the family were deeply moved when Essendon’s chief executive, Xavier Campbell, phoned to invite the children to run through the team’s banner.

“That touched us very much,” Mr Millichip said.

With son, Brye, 9, supporting Essendon, and daughter Shanee, 11, and son, Memphis, 6, supporting the Western Bulldogs — the kids’ big moment would come when the teams faced each other in Round 22.

Essendon chief marketing officer Justin Rodski said the clubs were keen to help Mr Dunlop’s family at an incredibly difficult time.

media_camera Alan Dunlop. Picture: Supplied

“We had heard Alan was an Essendon supporter so we thought if there was anything we could do for the kids, we would like to be able to help them,” he said.

“Both clubs will be making sure the kids are given the best possible day.”

Mr Dunlop’s mother, Karen Dunlop, thanked everyone for their condolences and support.

“I could not have got through this without everyone’s love and help,” she said.

Police charged Ms Brennan last Saturday night with dangerous driving causing death.

Ms Brennan, of Altona Meadows, sat with her head down at her court appearance.

The court extended Ms Brennan’s bail to August 16 when she is expected for a pre-committal hearing.

wayne.flower@news.com.au