Women’s Match Report: Royals Clinch Vital Win Over Box Hill United
In a critical encounter at Wembley Park, the Essendon Royals secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Box Hill United, bolstering their position in the race for NPLW Victoria finals football. This win is pivotal in the season, as the Royals aim to solidify their standing among the top teams.
Box Hill United, which has been showing significant improvement recently, started the match on the front foot. They took a deserved lead in the 11th minute through Rhianna Pollicina, who capitalized on a defensive lapse by the Royals to score a well-crafted goal. The early setback jolted the Royals, who found themselves under pressure as Box Hill looked to extend their lead. A crucial intervention by goalkeeper Beth Mason-Jones in the 14th minute prevented Pollicina from doubling her tally, keeping the Royals in the game.
The match’s momentum shifted in the 19th minute following a dynamic sequence by the Royals. A short corner routine led to Julia Sardo unleashing a powerful strike that rattled the crossbar. Danielle Marshall was alert to the rebound, driving the ball home to level the score at 1-1. Despite protests from Box Hill for an offside call, the goal was confirmed after deliberations between the officials.
The Royals continued their resurgence and took the lead in the 26th minute. Ava Groba, with a burst of pace down the left flank, delivered a precise cutback to Audrey Oastler. Oastler’s clever play set up Reona Omiya, who finished expertly to put the Royals ahead.
As the first half neared its conclusion, Mason-Jones was called into action again, making a spectacular save to deny Box Hill an equalizer just before the halftime whistle.
The second half saw Box Hill aggressively push back into the match, but they found Mason-Jones in stellar form. The Royals’ goalkeeper made several key saves, ensuring her team maintained its slender lead. The Royals’ defensive solidity, combined with Mason-Jones’ heroics, frustrated the home side, who struggled to convert their chances.
In the 85th minute, Mason-Jones produced another outstanding save, cementing her status as a crucial player for the Royals in this tightly contested match.
The victory was a testament to the Royals’ resilience and ability to respond under pressure. It also highlighted coach Vince Battiato’s strategic adjustments, particularly the substitution at halftime that introduced Raquel Deralas for Marie Rampal, adding fresh energy to the Royals’ play.
This win keeps Essendon Royals in contention for the finals, demonstrating their ability to grind out results in challenging circumstances. As the season approaches its concluding stages, the Royals’ ability to perform in crucial games will be vital in their pursuit of championship glory.