Women’s Match Report: Royals Edge Out Bentleigh in Five-Goal Thriller

Essendon Royals secured a much-needed 3-2 victory over Bentleigh Greens at Cross Keys Reserve on Saturday afternoon, holding off a late fightback to take home all three points.

Emma Langley led the charge for the Royals, striking twice in the first half to put the home side in control early. Her first goal arrived after 11 minutes, neatly turning home a cross from Ava Groba to open the scoring. Langley then doubled the advantage soon after, capitalising sharply on a defensive lapse by the Greens to calmly slot home her second.

Bentleigh, playing their first league match under new coach Dario Simunic, refused to fold and pulled a goal back midway through the half via Sidney Allen. Allen produced a fine finish from distance, reminding the Royals that the contest was far from over.

However, Essendon quickly reasserted their dominance, with Fujiwara Airi restoring the two-goal cushion before halftime. Fujiwara picked out the top corner from a tight angle – a finish of real quality – to make it 3-1 at the break.

The second half was a more subdued affair until Bentleigh sparked late drama in the 69th minute. A Royals turnover allowed Delaney Kenney space to advance and strike powerfully into the top corner, setting up a tense finish.

Despite some nervy moments, Essendon held firm to see out the game, clinching an important 3-2 win that ends a run of defeats and provides a timely confidence boost.

Langley’s brace and Fujiwara’s eye-catching strike proved decisive, while Royals coach Vince Battiato will be pleased with his team’s resilience in the face of Bentleigh’s spirited comeback.

The Royals now turn their focus to building on this positive result as they seek to climb the NPLW ladder over the coming weeks.