The Essendon medical staff might have performed miracles getting James Hird and Matthew Lloyd back on the ground for this weekend’s match against the Western Bulldogs but the players themselves won’t be expected to perform any great deeds. At least that is the thoughts of Essendon centre half forward Scott Lucas. Lucas said it was obviously a relief for everyone to have Hird and Lloyd back in the side but said it didn't mean other players could afford to relax. “Having Lloyd and Hird back will definitely strengthen our structure. It is amazing that they were injured in the same match and they will return at the same match. We are not expecting them to turn it on in their first game back but it will be a bonus having them back in the team,” Lucas said.

Lucas had his hands full earlier today at the Royal Children’s Hospital, launching Starlight Night. Essendon and the Western Bulldogs have joined forces to dedicate Saturday night’s match to the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Starlight Night at Colonial Stadium is a celebration of Starlight’s dedicated and magical work within the community, which brightens the lives of many seriously ill children and their families through granting of wishes and providing entertainment both in and out of hospital throughout Australia.

Aside from the game, there will be pre-game entertainment for spectators, as well as the opportunity for Bomber supporters to assist Starlight by purchasing a piece of Starlight’s merchandise or making a donation on the night. Please get behind this worthwhile cause, because without the support from the community Starlight would not be able to continue brightening the lives of seriously ill children throughout Australia.