Bombers lobby AFL with bold schedule request

Essendon has reportedly lodged a formal request with the AFL to move its season opener against Hawthorn from Marvel Stadium to the MCG in order to maximise fan attendance.

The Bombers confirmed to The Age that a request had been made with the league in a bid to have up to 25,000 more fans attend their home match against the Hawks.

It comes after the Victorian government greenlighted crowds for the opening round of the season, with both MCG and Marvel stadium allowed to operate at a 50 per cent capacity.

Hawthorn chief Justin Reeves was also open to the move, telling The Age: “If it means more Hawthorn fans and members can get into the game, then we’d love to explore it.”

If the Bombers-Hawks game remains at Marvel Stadium, a crowd of around 25,000 would only be allowed to attend. If it was moved to the MCG, around 50,000 patrons would be permitted into the ground.

Melbourne and Fremantle are currently scheduled to play at the MCG earlier on the same day, but the MCC would be open to hosting the Bombers-Hawks game if a move was approved by the league, according to The Age.