Geelong Holiday Inn & Suites Match Preview: Royals Ready for Altona Challenge as Promotion Race Heats Up
Under the Friday night lights at HC Kim Reserve, Essendon Royals meet Altona City in a clash brimming with potential pitfalls and plenty of promise. As the second half of the VPL2 season gets underway, the Royals have found a winning rhythm and are looking to keep the pressure dialled up at the sharp end of the table.
Sitting level at the top with Eltham Redbacks on 26 points after a commanding 5-0 victory over Boroondara-Carey Eagles, Mick Ferrante’s men head into Round 14 with spirits sky-high. Prince Jordan Adeyemi’s stunning hat-trick last week highlighted a front line that’s firing on all cylinders, complemented by Maze Ali, who’s hit three in his last two outings, and Julian Guzzardi, whose tireless efforts have paid off handsomely in recent weeks.
But Ferrante knows better than most how quickly fortunes can turn, especially against a tricky opponent like Altona City. While Altona’s recent form has been patchy, they remain dangerous on their patch.
Last weekend’s scoreless draw with Box Hill United halted a run of three consecutive defeats, and they’ll be desperate to recapture momentum and steady their ship.
The season opener at JH Allan Reserve showed just how tight contests between these two sides can be. The Royals earned a narrow, fiery 2-1 victory back in February, with Adeyemi proving the difference amid controversy that saw both teams reduced to ten men.
Ben Bowler grabbed a goal from the spot for Altona, highlighting the fine margins separating these clubs.
Essendon, riding high on confidence, must be wary of an Altona side keen on revenge. Discipline and defensive organisation will be crucial, particularly against a host side eager to test goalkeeper Andre Russo and his protective line.
The Royals’ midfield generals, Graham Kelly and the ever-experienced Vince Lia, will once again need to assert calm authority to guide their teammates through what promises to be a challenging encounter.
Victory on Friday would not only solidify Essendon’s promotion credentials but also maintain vital momentum heading into the business end of the season. However, at Kim Reserve, nothing ever comes easy.
Expect goals, expect passion, and perhaps a dash of drama—standard fare when these two clubs meet.
Match Details:
🆚 Altona City SC vs Essendon Royals SC
📍 HC Kim Reserve
📅 Friday, 16 May
⏰ Kick-off 8:30 PM