The Bulls climbed to the top of the Group E ladder after a hard-fought win over Tai Po FC in Campbelltown, securing their place in the AFC Champions League 2 Quarter Finals.
On a scorching afternoon, the Bulls entered the match knowing only a win would see them through. The first half began at a measured pace, with the side choosing to sit deep, absorb pressure and wait for the right moment to counter. Politidis tested the keeper early with a long-range effort but could not find the net.
Despite several strong saves from Filip Kurto, Tai Po opened the scoring in the 23rd minute. The Bulls went into halftime trailing but far from defeated.
A revitalised Bulls side emerged after the break, boosted by the introductions of Harry Sawyer and Luke Vickery. The impact was immediate. Just five minutes after coming on, Vickery levelled the score with a superb strike from outside the area.
Liam Rose came close to giving the Bulls the lead in the 54th minute, rattling the crossbar from distance. The breakthrough finally arrived through Vickery again. A Luke Brattan free kick cannoned off the woodwork and fell perfectly for Vickery, whose shot was pushed over the line by the Tai Po goalkeeper.
The Bulls held firm to secure the win, clinching top spot in Group E and booking their place in the AFC Champions League 2 Quarter Finals.
