Luv-a-Duck Women’s Match Preview: Royals Eye Huge Statement at League Leaders Heidelberg
Essendon Royals head to Olympic Village this Saturday afternoon full of confidence, aiming to maintain their excellent recent form against current NPLW leaders Heidelberg United.
Despite Tuesday night’s NIKE FC Cup exit to Bundoora, the Royals arrive in fine spirits following three consecutive league victories – including last weekend’s memorable 3-0 win over rivals South Melbourne, which capped off a special 30-year celebration of women’s football at the club.
Goals came from Cobi Wilbert, Sasha Coorey, and Fujiwara Airi in an outstanding performance, highlighted by Zara Board’s brilliant late double-save to preserve the clean sheet.
However, this weekend’s challenge is a significant step up.
Heidelberg United sit atop the NPLW table, coming into this clash fresh off a crucial 2-1 away victory against FC Bulleen Lions.
Cameron Barreiro and Sawa Matsuda were the heroes for the Bergers, whose recent run has seen them pull clear at the summit with four wins in their last five matches.
Matsuda leads the NPLW Golden Boot race with 10 goals in as many appearances, including four goals in her last two outings. The Japanese attacker netted an astonishing 33 goals in all competitions for Keilor Park in VPL last season, and has translated her form into the top flight.
Heidelberg also features the talents of Rosie Wild, a former Royals favourite who helped the club to promotion in 2023. The Kiwi defender has already scored twice for the Bergers this season.
The Royals can take heart from their strong record against Heidelberg last season, having done the double over the eventual Grand Final winners.
Their last visit to Olympic Village was a memorable one, battling torrential rain to claim a gritty 3-1 win, courtesy of a brace from Audrey Oastler and a goal from Reona Omiya.
They backed that up with another solid 2-0 home victory, thanks to goals from Oastler and Ava Groba.
This weekend, the Royals will look once again to the attacking prowess of Fujiwara, Groba, and Emma Langley, who have all found scoring form in recent weeks.
Meanwhile, keeper Zara Board and her defensive unit will need to be at their best to keep the Bergers at bay.
With Essendon climbing steadily up the ladder and Heidelberg determined to maintain their top spot, Saturday’s clash shapes as a massive test and an opportunity for Vince Battiato’s side to underline their growing credentials as genuine contenders.
Kick-off at Olympic Village is set for 4:15 PM on Saturday 31 May.