Essendon youngster Jason Laycock underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee this morning but could still play in the season opener against Melbourne. ""Like Dean Solomon, the surgery was very minor but necessary to ensure it doesn’t cause bigger problems later in the season,"" Essendon football operations manager Dom Cato said.

""It is disappointing for Jason who has had an excellent pre-season to this stage and was obviously pushing for a place in the senior side. But the flipside is that it gives him the opportunity to shake off a couple of other minor niggles.""

Laycock, Solomon, David Hille and Courtney Johns are the only four Bombers certain to miss this weekend’s match against Geelong at Queen Elizabeth Oval in Bendigo. Mark Johnson is a chance to play having recovered from shoulder surgery, Adam Ramanauskas is moving freely after a corked hamstring while Dean Rioli will play after being rested last week.

""The team will basically be the best players we have available,"" Cato said. "" We have a week off after that game to prepare for Melbourne so we need a solid workout this Friday night.""

The match has been organised by the Victoria Police Blue Ribbon Foundation, and the Bombers and the Cats will be playing for the Blue Ribbon Cup. A special police medallion has been struck and is to be awarded to the best player afield.

Gates open at 4.30pm and there is a AFL recreational football display from 5.30 till 6pm. Teams warm up from 6pm until till 6.20pm followed by a police helicopter display at 6.30pm. The game starts at 7pm sharp.

Essendon memberships and merchandise will be available on the night.