The Bulls produced a spirited comeback against Brisbane Roar, coming from behind to snatch all three points in a festive Friday night clash at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
Despite an hour-long delay due to lightning in the area, and challenging conditions brought on by rain and humidity, the Bulls were ready for the fight once play finally got underway.
The opening half was a physical and scrappy affair as the Bulls worked to adjust to the ever-changing weather and Brisbane’s intensity. Clear chances were limited, but the Bulls continued to edge closer to goal as the half wore on.
Callum Talbot came closest before the break, unleashing a powerful strike that was well saved by Bouzanis. Despite their growing momentum, the Bulls headed into the sheds level with Brisbane at half-time.
The Bulls emerged from the break determined to claim an early Christmas present, but it was Brisbane Roar who struck first, with Matt Dench finding the opener in the 48th minute.
Undeterred, the Bulls continued to push forward and were handed a crucial lifeline in the 64th minute when Bernardo was brought down inside the box. Harrison Sawyer stepped up and calmly converted the penalty in the 66th minute to restore parity.
Just four minutes later, the Bulls were awarded another spot kick after Sawyer was pulled down by the Brisbane defence. Once again, Sawyer made no mistake, burying his effort to give the Bulls the lead.
From there, it became a defensive masterclass. Following Tomi Uskok’s substitution due to concussion concerns, Liam Rose shifted into a centre-back role and helped marshal the backline through the closing stages.
Sawyer’s second-half brace proved decisive, as the Bulls held firm to secure all three points and ensure Christmas came early at Campbelltown.
