Battiato: We need all our players for crucial run

The Essendon Royals Senior Women face a crucial run of games, and Vince Battiato is excited for the challenges ahead for his squad.

Under the enchanting aura of Friday Night Lights, Essendon Royals prepare to battle it out against the Eltham Redbacks, with coach Vince Battiato unable to contain his enthusiasm. “Friday nights at Cross Keys are magical, and we’re so happy to be back at home on a Friday night,” he says.

Friday’s opponents, the Eltham Redbacks, have the Royals’ coach paying them their due respect, with Battiato revealing his close friendship with Eltham’s coach, Steven Babbage. “I consider him a friend, not just a coach, and we know each other quite well. I rate Eltham; he’s recruited well, and I think they’ll get better as their new players continue to gel.”

The recent bye weekend came at an opportune time for the Royals, allowing the team to enjoy a relaxed Easter weekend, and the Royals will need every minute of that rest over the next 10 days.

As the schedule intensifies with matches against Caroline Springs George Cross in the Cup and Brunswick Juventus next Sunday, Battiato remains focused on striking the right balance. He emphasises the importance of managing minutes and trusting the depth of his squad to deliver in the Cup.

With George Cross on the horizon, Battiato acknowledges the challenges ahead. “They have some good players. They have strong and technical wingers, so they’re a team we need to treat with respect,” he said. 

Despite the challenges ahead, the Royals’ coach remains confident in his team’s ability to face these trials and trusts his players to rise to the occasion.

In the high-stakes world of football, Vince Battiato stands firm in his convictions and unwavering trust in his Essendon Royals squad. As they prepare for the upcoming matches, one can’t help but sense the anticipation building in the air, illuminated by the magic of Friday Night Lights.