The Lifespan Osteopathy Match Report: Royals Tough Intro To NPL3 Continues at Nunawading City
Essendon Royals suffered their second loss of the season, falling 0-3 to Nunawading City in a match that saw the Royals create multiple chances but struggle to find the back of the net.
A slow start proved costly for the Royals, who – despite making some great chances – had a big mountain to climb, being 2-0 down after 20 minutes.
Once again, one of the highlights of the day was the performance of Royals junior Julian Napolitano, who continues to make an impressive start to his senior career.
Nunawading City took an early lead in the 8th minute through Atsushi Bando, capitalising on some nice play through the middle.
The Royals responded with a series of chances, with young Napolitano proving the chief tormenter, who had a shot on target in the 15th minute. Despite the Royals’ efforts, Nunawading extended their lead in the 20th minute, as Michael Romas scored amidst claims of offside from the Royals’ defence.
The Royals continued to create opportunities in the first half, with a headed chance for Kelly in the 28th minute and a McEvoy header in the 37th minute. However, the Nunawading goalkeeper proved difficult to beat, making several crucial saves to keep the Royals at bay.
In the second half, the Royals maintained their pressure, but Nunawading’s defence stood firm, blocking multiple shots from Napolitano and others. Substitutions were made in an attempt to change the game, but despite some promising play, the Royals couldn’t find a breakthrough.
As the match entered stoppage time, Alex Kubenko sealed the victory for Nunawading with a goal in the 90th minute, making the final score 0-3 in favour of the hosts.
The Essendon Royals will look to bounce back and secure their first win of the season in their next match when they travel to Geelong SC.
The under-21s contest proved a much more dramatic affair, with the Royals sealing a 2-1 win.
The Royals had taken the lead through Arjin Bagdas before missing a penalty. The missed spot-kick allowed Nunawading to equalise in the closing stages of the game, before the Royals responded brilliantly, scoring the winner via Bagdas.
The under-21s are now two wins from two, extending their strong start to the season.