Women’s Match Report: Royals Hold Firm to Edge Past Bentleigh

Essendon Royals made it six wins in a row, securing a crucial 2-1 victory over a resilient Bentleigh Greens at Kingston Heath on Friday night, strengthening their grip on an NPLW finals berth.

Emma Langley opened the scoring for the Royals in the 17th minute, expertly finishing from close range after a precise cross, marking her eighth goal of the season. 

Despite controlling the early stages, the Royals couldn’t capitalise further in the first half, with Sasha Coorey and Deven Jackson both coming close but failing to find the net.

The Royals doubled their advantage shortly after halftime, thanks to Alana Cerne, who calmly slotted home at the back post following a well-worked set-piece in the 58th minute.

However, Bentleigh Greens refused to lie down and pulled one back in the 75th minute through Samantha Curwood-Wagner, whose clinical finish set up a nervy finale. 

The Royals, though, held their nerve, with goalkeeper Zara Board and the backline ensuring no late equaliser was forthcoming.

It was a performance that underlined the Royals’ renewed determination and resilience – qualities that have come to define their late-season surge. 

With three more crucial points secured, Vince Battiato’s side continue to build momentum at the perfect time, as finals football looms ever closer.