Women’s Match Report: Alonso hat-trick inspires Royals

The Essendon Royals put on an impressive performance at Cross Keys, securing an emphatic 4-0 victory against Eltham Redbacks. 

The highlight of the match was undoubtedly Rachel Alonso’s scintillating hat trick. Mary Hubeek rounded off the scoring, nodding home the fourth and final goal for the Royals.

The game began with both teams jostling for dominance, but it was the Royals who found their rhythm first.

The Redbacks – to their credit – were resolute defensively and gave very little up in the first half until Alonso’s breakthrough came in the 39th minute. A swift attack led by Ayano Koizumi, who released Kate Spiteri down the wing, ended with a dangerous cross that Alonso clinically converted.

Alonso continued to torment the Redbacks’ defence, netting a stunning free kick from the wing in the 47th minute. Not satisfied with just a brace, she went on to make it 3-0 in the 53rd minute, completing her hat-trick in style.

The Redbacks attempted to claw their way back into the match, hitting the post in the 72nd minute, but it was the Royals who had the last laugh. In the 79th minute, Rampal’s effort was guided over the line by Hubeek, putting the icing on the cake for the Royals.

This commanding victory ensures the Royals maintain their perfect start to the season, having now scored an impressive 10 goals in three games while conceding none. The team’s confidence is sky-high.