Men’s Match Report: Tough Night at Cross Keys as Royals Fall to FC Melbourne Srbija
In the opening match of their six-game homestand, the Essendon Royals experienced a challenging evening, succumbing to a 2-0 defeat against FC Melbourne Srbija at Cross Keys Reserve. Despite a spirited effort, the Royals were unable to overturn a disciplined Srbija side, marking their fourth consecutive loss in league play.
The game started evenly with both teams looking to establish control. However, it was Srbija who struck first in the 17th minute, as Marko Basic capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home a straightforward finish, giving the visitors an early lead.
Andre Russo, the Royals’ goalkeeper, was called into action several times following the opener, making a crucial save in the 24th minute to keep the deficit to one. Despite some promising set pieces from Essendon, including a couple of corners that found Brad Norton at the back post, Srbija’s defence held firm, clearing any threats.
The Royals continued to press, with Ethan Georgopoulos delivering a dangerous free-kick in the 30th minute that forced another fine save from the Srbija keeper, tipping the ball over the bar to deny an equaliser.
The second half saw the Royals make an attacking substitution, introducing Ali Eyigun in hopes of revitalising their offence. Eyigun immediately made an impact, testing the Srbija goalkeeper with a shot from distance, though it lacked the placement to trouble him further.
Despite continued pressure and another dangerous free-kick from Eyigun, which found Yusuke Nishiyama in the box and forced a remarkable save, the Royals could not find the breakthrough. Srbija doubled their lead shortly thereafter, with Basic adding his and Srbija’s second goal of the night, a precise finish that extended their lead and further dampened the Royals’ spirits.
As the match wore on, the Royals struggled to convert their chances, with Dean Clarke missing an opportunity from distance and Julian Guzzardi driving a shot wide after a strong run down the flank.
Late substitutions aimed to inject fresh energy, but the tactical changes could not alter the outcome. The final whistle confirmed a 2-0 victory for FC Melbourne Srbija, leaving the Royals to reflect on a night where opportunities were created but not converted.
This defeat means that the Essendon Royals need to regroup and rediscover their early-season form as they continue their extended run of home fixtures. The team remains determined to turn their fortunes around and climb back up the VPL2 standings.