ConnectOS Men’s Match Report: Clarke’s Late Strike Seals Royals Victory

Essendon Royals returned to winning ways with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Pascoe Vale at JH Allan Reserve, thanks to a decisive second-half strike from Dean Clarke.

In a match that saw few clear-cut chances, both sides battled through a cagey first half, with neither team able to carve out any real openings. The Royals did feel aggrieved when Jordan Adeyemi appeared to be fouled in the box, after being first to a loose ball spilled by the Pascoe Vale goalkeeper, but the referee waved away the appeals.

The second half saw Essendon grow into the game, with Clarke proving to be a constant menace down the flanks. He had one attempt fly just over the bar before eventually breaking the deadlock. It was Graham Kelly who provided the assist, surging forward before slipping Clarke in on goal, where he made no mistake with a clinical finish to secure all three points.

The Royals showed resilience in the closing stages, seeing out the game to pick up a vital victory and keep pace near the top of the VPL2 table.

Elsewhere in the club’s VPL2 action, the U19s continued their strong form with a thrilling 3-2 win, while the U23s suffered a 3-1 defeat.

FULL-TIME: Essendon Royals 1-0 Pascoe Vale