Women’s Match Report: Royals cruise in Nike FC Cup win
The Essendon Royals secured a comfortable progression to the next round of the Nike FC Cup with a commanding 4-0 victory over State League 1 outfit Caroline Springs George Cross. The Royals were dominant from the first whistle to the last, putting on an impressive display against a spirited George Cross side that put up plenty of resistance but ultimately could not stop the Royals’ goalscoring juggernaut.
The opening goal came in the 29th minute, as Linda Sawa found the back of the net from close range following a scramble in the box. The Royals continued to press, and ten minutes later, Rebecca Davies doubled the lead with a stunning goal from the halfway line, capitalising on the George Cross goalkeeper’s advanced position.
In the second half, substitute Filomena Delic came on to make a significant impact, scoring a second-half brace to put the result beyond doubt. Delic’s first goal, a beautifully curled finish in the 70th minute, was set up by some delightful footwork from Mary Hubeek in the box.
The assist capped off a strong performance from Hubeek, who did a fantastic job leading the team as captain in the absence of Rachel Alonso – one of six senior players to sit out the game.
Delic completed the scoring in the 82nd minute with a close-range finish, capping off a dominant performance from the Royals.
The game was also notable for the superb 90 minutes played by 15-year-old Olivia Ristevski, who has made an outstanding start to the season. Despite her young age, Ristevski has been ever present in the Royals VPLW squads this season, seeing plenty of league minutes, whilst her strong performance over 90 minutes in the Cup game only serve to boost her growing reputation in a squad stacked with some exciting midfield options.
All up, Ristevski has played 250 senior minutes across five games this season.
Eliza Vargiu, also 15 years old, was another teen to make an appearance, coming off the bench and impressing in a 15-minute cameo in what was her second appearance of the season.
With this victory, the Essendon Royals now eagerly await the Round 5 draw in the Cup while shifting their focus back to league duties. Their next challenge will be a crucial match against Brunswick Juventus this Sunday. The Royals will be keen to continue their fine form and secure another victory in their pursuit of silverware this season.