Essendon have thrown their hat into the ring to have VFL curtain-raisers, with the Bombers targeting games against Geelong and the Western Bulldogs as opportunities for VFL/AFL double-headers.



It emerged last week that the AFL wanted to go back to the future by reinstating curtain-raisers for selected games in Melbourne. Carlton and Collingwood have already announced their intentions to be involved, and it seems the Bombers are also keen.



Essendon VFL general manager Matt Little suggested that pre-game ceremonies prevented showcase games against Richmond (Dreamtime at the G) and Collingwood (Anzac Day) from having VFL games played beforehand, but that Etihad Stadium could potentially host double-headers on Saturday, June 2 against Geelong, and Sunday, August 6 against the Western Bulldogs.

The AFL clash with Geelong is a night game, while the Bulldogs encounter is set down for a 3.20pm start.



"We don't have a big issue with that, it's just a matter of making sure that it gets ticked off by all the powers that be," Little said.

Essendon are keen to host a VFL curtain-raiser against Geelong in June. Credit:Ken Irwin

"The older fans that have seen under 19s, reserves and seniors all on the same day at the same venue, have always liked the idea of going to the footy early. If that can happen, I think it would be a fantastic outcome for not only Essendon and the other clubs but also the VFL."

The VFL fixture is set to be released in mid-December, with the cricket World Cup pushing back the start of the season until April 18.