Men’s Geelong Holiday Inn & Suites Match Preview: Royals Set for Season Opener Against Altona City
The wait is over! The Essendon Royals kick off their 2025 VPL2 campaign this Saturday, 8 February, at 3:00 PM, welcoming Altona City SC to JH Allan Reserve for a highly anticipated season opener.
For the first time in over five years, the Royals will open their campaign in Moonee Valley, having worked closely with Council and Football Victoria to secure JH Allan Reserve as a temporary home ground while cricket season and ground upgrades at Cross Keys Reserve are finalised.
Triestina Day – A Celebration of the Royals’ Heritage
To mark the occasion, the club is celebrating Triestina Day, honouring its historic roots. Fans attending the match will be treated to a marquee setup with incredible food options, highlighted by the iconic Spiducci, expertly grilled by Melbourne’s own Spiducci King, courtesy of Complete Electrical Solutions (Vic) Pty Ltd.
This promises to be a festival of football and community, setting the perfect stage for a huge season ahead.
The Opponent: Altona City SC
Altona City enters the 2025 campaign looking to build on an impressive third-place finish in 2024, their debut season in VPL2 after promotion from State League 1. City started strongly last season and remained a formidable side throughout, finishing with 11 wins, 7 draws, and 4 losses.
While their off-season recruitment has been relatively quiet in terms of what they have published, Altona has strengthened with key signings, including Sean Grella, who has experience at Melbourne City and Bentleigh Greens, and Benjamin Bowler, a former Welsh League player who recently played for Hume City and Bentleigh Greens.
Their leadership remains steady, with Andelo Svalina continuing as captain and Jordan Lam stepping in as vice-captain for the new season.
The Royals: Stability Over Overhaul
After a fourth-place finish in 2024, the Royals have opted for stability rather than a major overhaul. The squad remains largely intact, with key players such as Jordan Adeyemi, Graham Kelly, Dean Clarke, Vince Lia, Andre Russo, Julian Guzzardi, Marcus Kotronis, Ali Eyigun, Anthony Ramzy, Diarmaid Harrington, Phil Riccobene, Brad Norton, Seb Lo Monaco, Jack Leech, Will Thomason, and James Tieri all returning.
A significant change sees club captain Matteo Ballan retiring, with Graham Kelly taking over the captain’s armband.
The Royals have also strengthened their squad, welcoming:
- Evan Markogiannakis – a returning junior who adds depth to the goalkeeping stocks
- Shabir Sawiz – another former junior making his return
- Haysm Elias, Vincent Nicoletti, and Rashid Hayek, all fresh faces who will add new energy to the squad
With a strong core of returning players and new talent adding depth, the Royals will be looking to build on last year’s momentum and start the season on the front foot.
Last Time They Met
The last time these two sides clashed, it was an electric encounter as the Royals claimed a 4-1 victory at Kim Reserve. Altona took the lead within seconds, but Essendon responded in style with goals from Ethan Georgopoulos, Brad Norton, Vince Lia, and Dean Clarke. A crucial penalty save from Christian Cogo kept the Royals in the contest before they stormed home to secure a statement win.
Be There for the Season Opener!
With an exciting squad, a historic homecoming, and a festival atmosphere, this is a match not to be missed. Get down to JH Allan Reserve this Saturday at 3:00 PM and be part of the Royals’ 2025 journey.
📅 Match Details:
🆚 Essendon Royals vs Altona City SC
📍 JH Allan Reserve
⏰ Saturday, 8 February | 3:00 PM Kick-off
🎉 Triestina Day – Spiducci by Spiducci King