Luv A Duck Women’s Match Preview: Royals Look to Keep Momentum Rolling Against In-Form Alamein

Essendon Royals return to NPLW action this Saturday afternoon riding high after a confidence-boosting week on two fronts—and they’ll need every bit of that belief as they welcome second-placed Alamein FC to Cross Keys Reserve.

Vince Battiato’s side claimed an impressive 1-0 league win over FC Bulleen Lions last time out in the NPLW, their third consecutive win over one of the competition’s traditional powerhouses.

The result was followed by a dramatic Nike FC Cup triumph on Thursday night, with the Royals edging out Melbourne University 2-1 after extra time.

Goals from Sasha Coorey and Ava Groba sealed the passage to the next round and capped off a gritty team performance in front of their home supporters.

Now, attention turns back to league matters, where the Royals sit seventh on the table, just three points off second-placed Alamein.

A win on Saturday would not only continue Essendon’s climb but send a statement to the rest of the competition that last year’s semi-finalists are hitting their stride.

It won’t be easy. Alamein have been one of the league’s most consistent outfits to start 2025, claiming notable wins over Preston and Bulleen while keeping three clean sheets in their five matches. Their only defeat came at the hands of table-toppers South Melbourne, and they’ve proven difficult to break down all season.

The Royals’ defence will need to be switched on against Alamein’s dynamic front line, with Neve Duston (3 goals) and Emma Runnalls (2 goals) leading the charge for the visitors.

But Essendon will take heart from their own recent form. Cobi Wilbert’s match-winning goal against Bulleen was a reward for sustained attacking.

The leadership of Mikaela Jurcic and Rebekah Van Dort has been vital at the back, while players like Fujiwara, Groba, and Paradis are creating chances with increasing regularity.

With belief building and confidence high, the Royals will be out to make it three wins in a row in all competitions and leapfrog their rivals on the ladder.

Kick-off is set for 3:00 PM at Cross Keys Reserve, with the Under-20s getting things underway at 12:30 PM. Come down, make some noise, and back the Royals in what promises to be a high-quality NPLW contest.