Gaffney Match Preview: Essendon Royals welcome Fawkner SC in Nike FC Cup tie
The Essendon Royals will commence their Nike FC Cup campaign with a home tie against Fawkner SC at JH Allan Reserve this Sunday.
Following a strong pre-season featuring a number of notable results against higher-division outfits, the Royals are primed for the new season under coach Vince Battiato, who has wasted no time in putting his mark on the club’s senior women program.
Strengthening the side with a number of key additions and re-signing the best talent already at the club, the Royals will be keen to see how their pre-season form translates into the competitive fixtures.
Whilst Fawkner SC are two divisions below the Royals, currently playing in State League 3, Battiato and his players will be keen to ensure that they don’t allow another Fawkner fairytale to unfold at JH Allan Reserve.
Whilst the Royals are entering the competition in Round 3, the Blues have had to earn their spot in the Cup draw.
They progressed through Round 1 courtesy of a forfeit from Williamstown SC, but came up against State League 1 opposition in the form of La Trobe University last Monday night.
With scores locked at 1-1 at full-time, Fawkner proved they are capable of beating higher-level opposition by securing the win via the penalty shootout, converting four spot-kicks to La Trobe’s two.
Bianca Recinos scored the opener for Fawkner after 20 minutes and they held the lead until the 75th minute in an impressive showing.
The result will serve as a fair warning to the Royals that they underestimate their opponents at their peril.
The Royals enter the game flying high off the back of several wins against Victorian Women’s Premier League and National Premier League opposition, including wins over Southern United and Bayside.
Stay tuned for a number of further player announcements ahead of kick-off on Sunday as Battiato puts the finishing touches on his 2022 Senior Women’s Squad.
MATCH DETAILS
Essendon Royals v Fawkner SC
Nike FC Cup | Round 3
Sunday 20 March
2pm
JH Allan Reserve
Park Drive, Keilor East