The Bulls kicked off 2026 on the right foot, claiming a crucial three points against rivals Western Sydney Wanderers at CommBank Stadium.
The stage was set for another chapter of the classic Battle of the West, this time a New Year’s Day edition. Eager to begin the year with a statement, the Bulls were determined to get the better of the Wanderers on their home turf.
Having already defeated the Wanderers at CommBank Stadium on New Year’s Day in a previous instalment, the Bulls were ready to settle the score once again in 2026. The opening half saw the Bulls come out firing, with Damien Da Silva slotting seamlessly back into the defensive line following his return from injury.
The Wanderers threatened early, but Dean Bosnjak produced a crucial clearance to deny the opening goal. At the other end, Callum Talbot went close to scoring his first goal for the Bulls, only to be denied by Wanderers goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas.
The Bulls continued to push forward, with Bernardo and Luke Vickery creating several chances, before finally breaking through in the 41st minute. Set up by Bernardo, Rafael Duran curled a superb strike into the top corner, sending the Bulls into the sheds with a deserved half-time lead.
The second half saw the Bulls absorb sustained pressure as they worked hard to preserve their clean sheet. Opportunities to extend the lead came through Bosnjak and Sawyer, but neither could find the finish.
Chris Ikonomidis made a welcome return after a lengthy injury lay-off, making an immediate impact. The Bulls continued to press for a second goal while denying the Wanderers any clear chances right through to the final whistle.
The Bulls began 2026 in style, defeating their rivals and extending their unbeaten run to five matches.
