Senior Women’s Match Report: Essendon Royals Showcase Resilience in Hard-Fought Draw Against Ringwood City

In a game where grit and determination were on full display, Essendon Royals secured a 2-2 draw against Ringwood City in Round 11 of the VPLW. Despite being tested by a tough Ringwood side, the Royals showcased their resilience and dominance throughout the match.

Despite the result, results on Sunday mean that the Royals finish the first half of the season as outright leaders.

The Royals started strongly, with Ayano Koizumi scoring the opener in the 22nd minute. However, the Royals’ lead was short-lived. Just 40 seconds into the second half, Ringwood City’s Isabella Battaglia found the back of the net, levelling the scores.

Ringwood City, living up to their pre-game reputation of being a difficult team to play against, then took the lead in the 67th minute, courtesy of the league’s leading scorer Natasha Lusi. The Royals found themselves in unfamiliar territory, trailing despite their dominance and the numerous chances they created.

However, the Royals were not to be denied. Rachel Alonso demonstrated her poise under pressure, rescuing a point for the Royals by finding the equalizer in the 79th minute with a quality direct free kick from outside the box.

In the tense final minutes, the Royals created two incredible opportunities to clinch the victory, but the winning goal eluded them.

The Royals’ performance throughout the game was dominant, creating a host of chances that, on another night, could have led to a more favourable outcome. However, in football, the fine margins often dictate the result, and this night was no different.

The Royals will look to build on this performance in the upcoming matches, carrying forward the resilience and tenacity they displayed throughout this hard-fought draw. They will certainly take heart from their ability to fight back and create opportunities right up to the final whistle.