Sport
19 June, 2026
Valuable 2-2 draw for Strikers against Bulls
REDLYNCH Strikers showed plenty of character to come from behind twice and earn a valuable 2-2 draw against the Mareeba Bulls at Calanna Park on Saturday night.
Facing a Bulls side determined to secure all three points, the Strikers were forced to absorb early pressure as the visitors controlled possession and dictated much of the opening exchanges. Mareeba’s strong start paid dividends in the 18th minute when Keanu Tatti gave the Bulls a 1-0 lead.
Rather than allowing their heads to drop, Redlynch responded positively and gradually worked their way back into the contest. Their persistence was rewarded in the 33rd minute when Lachlan Kick-Peters found the equaliser, sending the teams into halftime level at 1-1.
The visitors again took control after the break and regained the lead in the 65th minute through a spectacular strike from Leon Peressini. With Mareeba appearing to be on course for victory, the Strikers dug deep and continued to battle until the final whistle.
Their determination was rewarded in the 88th minute when Gabriel Fenech scored a late goal and secured a hard-earned point sparking celebrations among the home side.
Assistant coach Victor Neckebroeck praised his players’ commitment and willingness to stick to the team’s game plan.
“We tried to keep it simple. We have a lot of young lads still developing, but they stuck to the game plan and they succeeded,” Mr Neckebroeck said.
“We’ve had some changes in the coaching in recent weeks. We focused on what we could do better and getting the boys back in the right mindset.”
While acknowledging it was only a draw, Mr Neckebroeck said the result was an important step forward for the club.
“I know it’s only a point, but we’ll take it,” he said.
“We’re focused on playing good football and getting back to basics, keeping possession and working hard for each other.
“We’re working on keeping the boys together and keeping the club going in a positive fashion.”
The draw may have yielded only a single point, but for a youthful Redlynch outfit continuing to rebuild and develop, the result provided further evidence that the Strikers are moving in the right direction.
The Strikers will have their work cut out for them Saturday as they take on Edge Hill United at Tiger Park with the match kicking off at 7pm.
