Women’s Match Report: Essendon Royals Stun NPLW Reigning Premiers in Opening Round Triumph
In a stunning display of grit and skill, the Essendon Royals Senior Women kicked off their inaugural NPLW campaign with a statement victory, upsetting the 2023 premiers, FC Bulleen Lions, with a thrilling 2-1 win under the Monday night lights at the Veneto Club.
From the onset, the Royals shrugged off the underdog label, exhibiting a brand of football that was as fearless as it was mesmerizing. Tough tackling and rapid transitions characterized their play, as they looked to exploit any sign of weakness in the Bulleen lineup.
Beth Mason-Jones, a fortress between the sticks, showcased her prowess with a series of vital saves. The defensive solidity was further bolstered by the prowess of Mikaela Jurcic and Danielle Marshall, whose performance in the backline was nothing short of remarkable.
The flanks were no less formidable, with Jess Smith and Marie Rampal fortifying the full-back positions and driving forward with intent. Kendrah Smith, fresh from New Zealand, stepped onto the NPLW stage with a seamless transition, while Audrey Oastler, Ava Groba, and Filomena Delic formed a formidable attacking trident.
Despite Groba’s early goal being disallowed for offside, the Royals signalled their intent. Bulleen, while managing some forward sorties, were largely reduced to speculative efforts from distance.
As the half-time whistle approached, a moment of brilliance unfolded. Captain Emma Sutcliffe, debuting as Royals captain, seized upon a lapse in the Bulleen defence, teeing up Groba, who threaded a perfectly timed ball to Oastler. With composure beyond her years, Oastler weaved past her defender and dispatched a clinical strike to give the Royals a deserved lead.
The second half saw Bulleen come out with renewed vigour, but the Royals were quick to regain their composure. The 60th minute witnessed a sublime long ball from Sutcliffe meeting Groba’s surging run. The resultant finish was clinical, doubling the lead and igniting ecstatic celebrations among the Royals’ ranks.
Bulleen did manage to claw one back in the 83rd minute with a Mila Bulic header from a corner, ensuring a tense finish to the contest. However, the Royals, anchored by the imperious Mason-Jones, weathered the storm, withstanding six minutes of stoppage time to secure an enthralling victory.
Mason-Jones’ and Smith’s performances did not go unnoticed, as both were named in the NPLW Team of the Week, an accolade that underscored the team’s collective strength and individual brilliance.
In the earlier kick-off the Royals young Under-20s side, comprised mostly of teenagers, suffered a 6-0 defeat to Bulleen Lions. The Royals, despite the scoreline, acquitted themselves well, particularly in the first 30 minutes, however it was not enough to deny a strong Bulleen side.