The annual Clash For Cancer match between Essendon and Melbourne football clubs that was played three weeks ago has helped raise almost $40,000 for the fight against men’s cancers.

The match was generously supported by over 42,000 Essendon and Melbourne supporters. Guernseys from the game which incorporated a yellow armband were auctioned post-match, in addition to limited edition yellow adidas boots worn by a number of Essendon players.

Essendon managing director Peter Jackson said it was a significant result for a cause close to the hearts of both teams.

""The supporters of both clubs can be proud of the efforts their teams have played in raising money and awareness for such an important cause,"" Jackson said.

""Cancer is something that touches the lives of people everywhere and is a disease both clubs have been experienced first-hand following the courageous battle of Essendon’s Adam Ramanauskas and more recently, Melbourne’s Jim Stynes.

""I am pleased that together we have been able to make a significant contribution to the Cancer Council and also the wider community.""

Melbourne CEO Cameron Schwab was pleased with the fundraising results generated from this year’s Clash For Cancer and hopes the match will continue to grow in the coming years.

""The Melbourne Football Club is always proud to be a part of the Clash For Cancer match and we are glad to be able to assist in raising funds for this important cause,"" Schwab said.

""Cancer affects many people’s lives and everyone involved with our Club has been reminded of this in recent times.""

The Clash For Cancer game kicked off this year’s Call To Arms campaign – a national cancer awareness campaign which runs throughout July encouraging local sporting clubs of any code to wear a yellow armband in support of the Cancer Council’s lifesaving support and research initiates.

Last year, the Call to Arms campaign helped raise over $350,000 and Cancer Council spokesperson Deb Stringer is hoping for a similar result this year.

""Last year 3,795 teams registered for a Call to Arms match. We are hoping to reach 4,500 this year so we are urging all sporting teams and clubs to register and get behind this event. It’s open to all ages, from junior leagues up to professional clubs, and all codes, from AFL, rugby and soccer through to hockey and water polo,"" she said.

For more information on the Clash For Cancer or the Call To Arms campaign, visit calltoarms.com.au.