A Sunday night clash at McDonald Jones Stadium ended in disappointment for the Bulls, as they went down to the Newcastle Jets.
Coming off a tough exit from the AFC Champions League Two, the Bulls were eager to respond on the domestic stage in the A-Leagues. Standing in their way were a Jets side riding a red-hot streak and brimming with confidence.
The Bulls entered the contest determined to halt Newcastle’s momentum, having edged the Jets 5–4 in a thrilling encounter earlier in the season. With the stage set for an entertaining contest, the Bulls looked poised to challenge for all three points.
Alexander Robinson made his first appearance between the sticks, replacing Filip Kurto. The Bulls started brightly, taking the game to the Jets with several early chances falling to Harry Sawyer, though the breakthrough proved elusive.
At the other end, Robinson was called into action on multiple occasions, producing a string of strong saves to keep the Jets at bay. The sides went into the break level, with the Bulls matching their hosts in intensity and intent.
Looking to inject fresh energy after the restart, Mile Sterjovski turned to Mitchell Duke and Chris Ikonomidis, with the substitutions lifting the Bull’s attacking threat. However, it was the Jets who struck first, with Lachlan Bayliss finding the net in the 54th minute.
Undeterred, the Bulls pushed hard for an equaliser. Duke, Ikonomidis, Liam Rose and Callum Talbot all had promising opportunities, but the finishing touch proved just out of reach.
The final whistle confirmed a frustrating night for the Bulls, who were unable to capitalise on their chances.
