Luv A Duck Women’s Match Preview: Royals Head to Preston for Crucial Friday Night Clash

Friday night’s trip to Preston is quickly shaping up as a do-or-die clash for Essendon Royals.

In a replay of last year’s NPLW Semi-Final, the Royals need to find their groove, and they need to do it at the expense of the Preston Lions who have – like the Royals – struggled to recapture last season’s form.

With only the top four sides progressing to finals, Vince Battiato’s team – currently sitting sixth – will be determined to bounce back after last week’s frustrating 3-1 defeat at Spring Hills. 

The Royals had started well, Olivia Wood putting them ahead early, but defensive lapses proved costly as Spring Hills fought back.

The result leaves the Royals stranded six points behind current fourth-placed side Alamein, and five points off the pace of fifth-placed Boroondara-Carey Eagles.

Friday’s opponents, Preston Lions, have had their own struggles recently, currently sitting ninth and enduring a four-match losing streak. Their last outing was a narrow 3-2 loss at home to FC Bulleen Lions, extending a challenging run of form.

However, Preston remain a dangerous outfit, particularly through striker Valentine Pursey, who has found the net 10 times already this season. 

Pursey was also on the scoresheet earlier this campaign when Preston overcame an early Royals goal from Ava Groba to eventually run out 3-1 winners at Cross Keys.

With both sides needing points to maintain their ambitions, Friday’s game promises plenty of intensity. 

Essendon will look to recapture the strong defensive form that marked their recent winning streak, while hoping their attack, led by Airi Fujiwara, Deven Jackson, and the impressive recent signing Olivia Wood, can capitalise on opportunities.

This is a must-win for the Royals, who will be aiming for a vital result to close the gap on the top four and keep their finals aspirations alive.

Kick-off at Genis Steel Stadium is set for 8:30 PM this Friday 4 July.