Women’s Coach’s Comment: Battiato’s Royals Embrace the Challenge of Leading the Ladder
Essendon Royals Women’s Coach Vince Battiato knows there’s a target on the back of his table-topping side, but says the response of the team to a 2-2 draw against Ringwood two weeks ago with a thrilling 3-0 win over Casey Comets proved the resilience and drive of his team.
“Last week, the team bounced back from a draw to secure a commanding 3-0 victory over Casey Comets FC. This victory was huge for us in terms of setting the momentum to begin the second half of the season,” Battiato commented.
“We set our goals at the mid-season whiteboard session and we were very clear on the job that needed to be done over the next two matches before we head into the bye. That big win gives us the confidence to go to Geelong, one of the toughest road trips of the season, and get another favourable result.”
The Royals’ success has not come without its pressures, but Battiato insists his team thrives on it. “We don’t focus on the pressure, we focus on each result and prepare accordingly each week, so to be honest we are thriving on having that target on our back.
“It just drives us to raise our already high benchmark even higher to achieve what we want. The group is focused, they are ready. They know the job in the second half of the season will be difficult, but they are up for the battle.”
And Battiato has a clear message for his team ahead of their next match: “Our mantra doesn’t change: respect everyone, fear no-one! But we are realists, so we know our challenge is to keep finding new ways to win, while our pursuers try to prevent us from playing. So we prepare well, we train hard and we enjoy our success when we earn it because we are brave and we are relentless.”
Battiato’s words echo the determination and resilience that has become the hallmark of the Royals this season. With a blend of humility, respect, fearlessness, and a drive to continuously evolve, the team is poised to maintain their position at the top. As they prepare to face Geelong Galaxy United FC, their coach’s belief in their ability to rise to the occasion is evident.
Battiato’s confidence in his team, their preparation, and their ability to handle the pressure sends a clear message: The Royals are ready for the challenges ahead.