Essendon Royals Women’s Coach’s Comment: Battiato excited for VPLW debut

Casey Comets away is one of the tougher assignments the VPLW could throw up in Round 1, according to Senior Women’s Head Coach Vince Battiato, but he is confident his side is ready for the test.

The Royals have been preparing for their debut VPLW campaign with a gruelling pre-season, and Battiato is excited to see the ladies in league action this Sunday.

“This year, I expect far more teams will be able to take points off each other, making every match more difficult and physical,” he said. 

“We’ve had an excellent preseason, adding 10 new players who are gelling well with the current squad members. Our preparation included friendlies against NPL opposition, giving us some good wins and a few losses from which we learned a lot. 

“We’re excited for the start of the VPL season and want to get off to a good start. If we can come away with something from our match against Casey Comets, one of the toughest away trips of the season, I’ll be really happy.

“The league has become much more physical, and we also have a couple of extra games to manage this season.”

Battiato said he highly rated the Comets ahead of Sunday’s game.

“Casey Comets are a very good side with a physical style. They’ve got a new coach who has brought in some new players, making them stronger than last year. They’ve added four very good visa players to their already talented squad,” he said. 

“Last year, Casey Comets were the only team to beat Preston Lions, who won the league. I consider this one of the most difficult matches of the season.”

The women’s game kicks off at 3pm on Sunday at Comet’s Stadium.