Lifespan Osteopathy Match Report: Essendon Royals smash Boroondara in critical Cross Keys win

In a thrilling display of football, Essendon Royals secured a decisive 4-1 victory over Boroondara-Carey Eagles in the NPL3 Round 20 clash at Cross Keys Reserve. The Royals showcased their offensive prowess, with Davey Van’t Schip and Dean Clarke leading the charge.

The Royals started the game on the front foot, with Van’t Schip opening the scoring in the 16th minute. A well-placed ball into the box from Jeremy Walker found Graham Kelly, who smartly knocked the ball down to Van’t Schip. The striker made no mistake, striking low and hard at the goal. The keeper got a finger to it, but it wasn’t enough to keep the ball out of the net.

The Royals doubled their lead just before half-time, with Clarke hammering home from just outside the box in the 44th minute. A pass from Matthew Breeze found Clarke, who created some space for himself and buried a brutally powerful shot into the back of the net.

Boroondara pulled one back in the dying moments of the first half, with Josh Stadnicki rising high at a corner to head home. However, the Royals were not to be deterred and came out strong in the second half.

Clarke scored his second of the game in the 81st minute, once again demonstrating his striking prowess. A drive from Graham Kelly ended with a pass to Clarke, who found the back of the net with a powerful shot.

The Royals put the game beyond doubt in the final moments, with Daniele Ferri scoring his first goal for the club with a beautiful flick. A low and hard cross was met by Ferri at the near post, who flicked the ball home behind his standing leg.

The match was also notable for the performance of Jack Warrick, who made a long-awaited return to the Senior side and barely put a foot wrong. It was a hugely promising display from the Under-21s captain.

Walker also starred in a midfield role, whilst Matteo Ballan and Will Abbott kept it tight at the back.

Despite the win, the Royals remain wary of their situation this season and know the job isn’t done yet. With all other teams in the competition playing on Saturday, the Royals know that the next game – another home fixture against Box Hill – will be another crucial encounter.