Essendon VFL captain Marcus Marigliani expected to make Hurstbridge debut against Diamond Creek this weekend

HURSTBRIDGE coach Michael Ryan has flagged the possibility of boom recruit Marcus Marigliani featuring in Northern Football League finals this year.

VFL: Essendon V Frankston. Marcus Marigliani, Essendon.

HURSTBRIDGE coach Michael Ryan has flagged the possibility of boom recruit Marcus Marigliani featuring in Northern Football League finals this year.

The Essendon VFL captain is expected to make his debut for the Bridges against Diamond Creek in their Division 2 fixture on Saturday.

Marigliani was cleared to play for Hurstbridge while Essendon has a VFL bye earlier today.

Ryan said Hurstbridge hoped Marigliani would play enough games over the remainder of the campaign to be eligible for selection come finals.

“Our hope is for this not to just be a one-off game for him,” Ryan said.

“Fingers crossed that he’ll be able to play a couple more games throughout the season and if it comes a chance and we’re fortunate enough to play finals he’ll also be available barring his commitments with Essendon.”

The rugged on-baller played two games for Essendon’s AFL side in 2010 and has enjoyed a decorated VFL career with Frankston, Sandringham, Port Melbourne and the Bombers.

Ryan said Marigliani’s presence would give the club a huge boost.

“It’s a huge buzz for the club and also the playing group that are going to run out alongside Rigga on Saturday,” he said.

“He’s also pretty excited as well.”

Ryan said his working relationship with Marigliani helped convince him to play for the club.

“He sort of said that as soon as I took the job at Hurstbridge, 100 per cent he’d come and play a couple of games for us whenever he was available,” he said.

“It is a perfect time of the year (for him to play). We’re looking to get our full list back and this week is a massive game against Diamond Creek.

“They beat us five weeks ago, so we know it’s going to be a big game.”

The midfielder will train with Hurstbridge tonight.

The club has not been shy about its ambitions this year, making several key signings including the recent capture of Heidelberg veteran Blair Harvey.

Hurstbridge’s Round 10 clash with Diamond Creek starts at 2.10pm on Saturday at Coventry Oval.