Gaffney Match Preview: Essendon Royals look to maintain promotion placing against North Geelong Warriors
The Essendon Royals will be looking to maintain their stranglehold on second position on the Women’s State League 1 North-West table when they welcome North Geelong Warrior to Cross Keys Reserve on Sunday night.
The Royals have a slender advantage in the race for promotion of Spring Hills Stallions, leading the Stallions by one point.
However, should the Royals continue the winning form they recommenced last weekend with a big win over FC Clifton Hill, what happens elsewhere will be of little relevance to the Royals.
With that in mind, Battiato will be ensuring his team is well prepared for the challenge of North Geelong, who proved one of the Royals toughest opponents thus far this season.
The fourth-placed Warriors have been strong at home this season, but have struggled on their travels, which may provide an additional advantage to the Royals with this game being held at Cross Keys Reserve on Sunday evening.
Still having won eight of their 13 games this season, it is clear the Warriors are no pushovers and will be confident that they can rattle the Royals.
Essendon’s Mary Hubeek produced a hat-trick last week and a similar output in front of goal this week would be welcome for the Royals who will look to try and put the game to bed as quickly as possible.
Hubeek has 13 league goals this season, bested only by Rachel Alonso (15) amongst her teammates.
Luisa Kump is the dangerwoman for the visitors on Sunday, bagging nine goals in 13 games.
In the earlier kick-off, the Royals Reserves will look to take one step closer to claiming the title.
Last week’s win over FC Clifton Hill put them in a commanding six-point lead over their second-placed rivals.
North Geelong, however, is the third-placed team and could pose a threat.
MATCH DETAILS
Women’s State League 1 | Round 14
Essendon Royals v North Geelong Warriors
Sunday 24 July
Cross Keys Reserve
Reserves 5.15 pm
Seniors 7.15 pm
AROUND THE GROUNDS
By the time the Royals start their game against North Geelong Warriors, all other games will be completed.
All eyes will be on Springside Recreational Reserve on Friday night where Spring Hills will take on league leader Brunswick Juventus.
The Stallions need the win to keep the pressure on the Royals, whilst Brunswick will want to maintain their advantage at the top of the table.
Elsewhere, Elwood City also play on Friday night, taking on FC Clifton Hill.
In the other games, Bundoora United take on Craigieburn City whilst La Trobe University host Keilor Park.