Lalor United’s push up the ladder was halted by the rampaging Essendon Royals in Football Federation Victoria’s State League 3 north-west on Saturday.
Eager to move into top spot, the Royals didn’t do their chances any harm, storming to a 5-1 win after leading 2-0 at half-time.
Lalor United dropped from sixth to seventh on the ladder.
PICTURE GALLERY: Essendon Royals v Lalor United
Northern Roosters lost top spot to the Royals after a 2-2 draw against Western Eagles.
The Roosters trailed 1-0 at half-time and were unable to snatch the three points in the second half.
In other results, Whittlesea United had a big win over North City Wolves.
Despite sitting near the bottom of the table, Whittlesea smashed the Wolves 7-1 on the back of five goals from Sinan Mirik.
In State League 1 north west, Fawkner Blues lost top spot after falling 1-0 to Sydenham Park. Hume United and Sporting Whittlesea had good wins in State League 2 north west. Hume United jumped to seventh spot with a 2-0 win against bottom side Melbourne University, while in a minor upset Sporting Whittlesea moved to ninth by beating Geelong, 1-0.
In State League 4 north, Upfield was too good for Meadow Park Eagles 4-2; West Preston beat Bundoora 1-0 and Northern Falcons had a 2-1 win over Plenty Valley. Darebin United beat Fawkner 4-2 and Parkville Panthers got over Watsonia Heights 4-3.
In State League 5 north, Northern United defeated Light United 3-2 and Greenvale United beat Reservoir Yeti 2-1.