Sport
12 June, 2026
Dolphins’ frustrating loss to Bulls
STRATFORD United was left to rue missed opportunities and a controversial second half turning point after surrendering a first-half lead in a 2-1 loss to the Mareeba Bulls at Borzi Park on Sunday.
Having defeated the Bulls in their previous meeting earlier in the season, Stratford arrived in Mareeba confident of securing another positive result and looked the more settled side during the opening exchanges.
Their bright start was rewarded in the 12th minute when Bryce Childers timed his run perfectly to collect a through ball before calmly finishing from close range to give the visitors a deserved 1-0 lead.
Stratford controlled much of the early tempo and restricted the Bulls’ attacking opportunities during a hard-fought first half.
While clear-cut chances were at a premium, the visitors appeared comfortable as they took their advantage into the halftime break.
The match changed complexion after the interval as Mareeba emerged with renewed intensity and began applying sustained pressure.
The pivotal moment arrived in the 58th minute when the Bulls were awarded a penalty following an incident inside the box. Liam Pozzebon converted from the spot to level the scores, much to the frustration of the Stratford camp.
With momentum suddenly shifting, Mareeba continued to press and found the eventual winner 10 minutes later when Wayne Srhoj’s floated effort caught goalkeeper Josh Harris off his line and drifted into the net.
Despite falling behind, Stratford refused to concede defeat and pushed forward in search of an equaliser. The visitors created several promising attacking moments late in the contest but were unable to find a breakthrough as the Bulls held on for the victory.
Stratford coach Pasco Rogato was visibly disappointed following the match and chose not to comment on the penalty decision that proved such a significant turning point in the contest.
“Credit to Victor Madrid and the Mareeba boys. They came from behind and earned the win,” he said.
Mr Rogato remained confident in his side’s prospects. “We’re on the right track and we will be there at the end of the season,” he said.
