CSF Match Preview: Royals travel to Club Italia for big Brimbank clash

The Essendon Royals travel to Club Italia this weekend in search of another crucial three points in their Men’s State League 1 North-West campaign.

The Royals are in the thick of a fierce promotion race, but control their own destiny with six games to play, starting this weekend against Brimbank Stallions.

Essendon sits second, five points behind league leaders Caroline Springs George Cross and two points ahead of third-placed Sydenham.

Trailing Sydenham is Banyule City, whilst the Stallions sit in fifth place, four points behind the Royals, making Saturday a must-win for the hosts.

This will be the first time the Royals have taken on the Stallions this season, with the Round Seven clash at Cross Keys Reserve postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

The Stallions have been something of a bogey side to the Royals in recent years, beating Essendon twice in two encounters last season.

Brimbank has struggled for results in recent weeks, however.

Last week they lost 3-0 at home to George Cross and were beaten by Banyule 4-2 the week prior.

They have also been held to draws by Yarraville, Corio and Keilor Park in recent rounds.

The Royals, on the other hand, were 1-0 winners last week against Altona City, ending a two-week streak of draws against Sydenham and FC Strathmore.

Having conceded just two goals in their last seven games, the Royals have not lost once in their last nine games, with their defensive efforts the cornerstone of their improved form.

Senior coach Michael Ferrante will be hopeful of continuing that good form on Saturday at what is always a tough place to visit.

The Royals battled with injuries and illness last week but put in a strong performance despite the conditions and circumstances.

With a number of players hoping to prove their fitness over the remainder of the week, Ferrante may have some additions to his squad to bolster his options.

In the earlier kick-off, the Royals will hope to keep their spot at the top of the table intact.

The Royals’ match against Brimbank was called off at half-time last time out, but they remain top despite having played a game less than their competitors.

Joseph Guerrera leads the scoring charts with 10 goals in 15 games for the Royals.

Brimbank sits in sixth position on the Reserves table.

MATCH DETAILS

Football Victoria Men’s State League 1 North-West – Round 18

Brimbank Stallions v Essendon Royals

Saturday 16 July

Club Italia

Reserves 1 pm

Seniors 3 pm