VPL 2 Men Match Preview: Round 3 vs Essendon Royals

Box Hill United return to Wembley Park on Friday night against Essendon Royals, looking to build on a promising performance.

Pythagoras salvaged a 1-1 draw against North Sunshine Eagles, leaving it right till the very end where Nick Weller got a stoppage time goal.

A point in two matches against stern opposition gives Box Hill United a platform to build on, with the latest result a true test of character.

The Royals have an undefeated start to 2024, the latest result a 2-1 win over Doveton SC, leaving them in fifth place on the table.

Essendon Royals players to watch:

Davey Van’t Schip has returned for his sixth year at the Royals, after starting out in 2019. A key member of the senior squad, he is a Playing Assistant Coach, working alongside Mick Ferrante in the Head Coach role. Van’t Schip is a well-known name in Victorian football and was particularly influential when the Royals won promotion in 2022.

The Royals made a signal of intent when they signed Phil Riccobene in the off-season. Previously, he spent nine years at Avondale FC, part of the team that secured the league double in NPL Victoria from over 100 appearances.. Former Club Junior Brad Norton partners him in the backline as another new addition for the season, adding another 301 appearances and championship success from his time at South Melbourne FC.

Last time we met:

In the penultimate game of the 2023 league season, Essendon Royals were the 3-0 victors over Box Hill United at Cross Keys Reserve.

A dominant first half put the hosts up to the eventual scoreline.

A brace from Dean Clarke and a single goal to Matthew Breeze got the three points that proved vital in the Club’s survival from the drop.

Match details:

What: Victoria Premier League 2 Men Round 3

Who: Box Hill United vs Essendon Royals

Where: Wembley Park

When: Friday March 22, kick-off 7:30pm

Image credit: Passion Creations