Essendon Royals made it three straight wins against NPLW heavyweights FC Bulleen Lions, grinding out a well-earned 1-0 victory at Cross Keys Reserve on Saturday afternoon.
In what’s fast becoming one of the most intriguing match-ups in Victorian women’s football, the Royals once again proved to be Bulleen’s bogey side—this time edging their way to three points thanks to a second-half poacher’s finish from Cobi Wilbert.
The match began with high intensity and no shortage of chances. Grace Paradis came close to opening the scoring early on, sliding in to meet a dangerous Airi Fujiwara cross, only to steer her effort just wide of the far post.
Kendrah Smith then lit up the first half with a thunderous long-range strike that rattled the crossbar, narrowly denying the home side a spectacular opener. Minutes later, her next attempt was on target but comfortably held by Bulleen keeper Emily Shields, who had a busy afternoon between the posts.
Despite the Royals controlling large periods of play, Bulleen had chances of their own. Danella Butrus found herself in behind the defence twice, but was met both times by the sharp reactions of Royals goalkeeper Zara Board.
The sides went into the break locked at 0-0, with Essendon knowing they needed to turn pressure into points.
And they did just that.
Midway through the second half, Rebekah Van Dort launched another attack down the right, and her cross triggered a goalmouth scramble. Shields parried Fujiwara’s initial shot and somehow denied Wilbert’s follow-up effort—but she couldn’t stop the third bite of the cherry. The ball fell kindly for Wilbert near the penalty spot, and she made no mistake, firing low into the net to give the Royals the lead in the 68th minute.
Essendon’s backline stood firm in the closing stages, with Mikaela Jurcic and Van Dort leading a disciplined defensive effort. A late long throw from Bulleen caused some nervous moments in the box, but the Royals cleared their lines and held on for a deserved clean sheet.
The result lifts Vince Battiato’s side back within touching distance of the top six and reignites momentum following back-to-back defeats. With their defensive shape tightening and the attack showing plenty of bite, the Royals are beginning to look like the side that stunned the competition in 2024.
© Essendon Royals Soccer Club 2025
