THE GEELONG HOLIDAY INN & SUITES ROYALS MEN’S MATCH PREVIEW: Essendon Royals Eye Season Turnaround in Friday Night Clash
The Essendon Royals will be eager to get their season back on track as they return to the familiar surroundings of Cross Keys Reserve for their first Friday night home game of the season.
Facing off against Beaumaris SC on April 21st, with an 8:15 PM kick-off, the Royals will look to harness the energy of their passionate home support to turn their fortunes around.
Having made the challenging leap from State League 1 to NPL3, the Royals currently sit at the bottom of the table. The tough start to the season saw them pitted against the top five sides in the first five rounds, with all but one of those games played away from home. Now, with a return to regular home fixtures, the Royals are determined to make the most of their home advantage.
Beaumaris SC, their Friday night opponents, arrive at Cross Keys Reserve on a two-game winless streak. Held to a 2-2 draw by Ballarat City FC last week and a 1-1 draw with Doveton prior, Beaumaris currently occupies the sixth position in the table with a record of 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss. With eight goals to their name this season from five different scorers, the Royals will need to focus on shutting down Beaumaris’ potent attack while being more clinical in front of goal themselves.
The introduction of Dean Clarke to the Royals’ lineup has sparked some newfound form in front of goal. With one goal and two assists in just over 100 minutes of football since joining the club, Clarke has brought a much-needed attacking edge to the team. However, the Royals will need to capitalize on the opportunities created in order to climb up the standings.
Supporters should make their way to Cross Keys Reserve early on Friday night, as the Under-21s kick off at 6:15 PM. The Royals’ youth squad is also hungry for a win after suffering two consecutive losses. Adding to the excitement of the night, Cross Keys Reserve will host a special Spiducci Night, with the Spiducci King himself grilling up a storm from the Under-21s kick-off until sold out.
With plenty of football action and delicious food on offer, Friday night promises to be a memorable occasion for the Essendon Royals and their supporters as they look to kick-start their season in earnest.