A late night kick-off ended in disappointment for Bulls fans who stayed up to watch their side fall to Bangkok United 2-0 in Thailand last Thursday night in the first leg of the ACL2 knockout stage.
The Bulls must win when the teams meet in the second leg at Campbelltown Stadium this Thursday night.
The Bulls started the first half strongly, pushing forward while absorbing the pressure applied by the home side.
Their best early chance came from a Luke Brattan free kick, delivered with pinpoint accuracy onto the head of Mitchell Duke, whose effort struck the post.
The Bulls were unable to capitalise on the rebound, leaving the score level.
Bangkok United opened the scoring in the 37th minute, breaking through the Bulls’ defence to find the back of the net.
The setback spurred the Bulls on as they searched for an equaliser, but they went into the break trailing.
The second half saw the Bulls tighten up defensively, with chances limited for both sides.
Bangkok United doubled their lead in the 72nd minute following a scramble in front of goal.
Despite continuing to fight until the final whistle, the Bulls were unable to convert their opportunities.
The return leg at Campbelltown Stadium this Thursday night is scheduled to kick off at 6.45pm.
Whatever happens in the ACL2, the Bulls will return to A-League action on Sunday, February 22 when they travel to Newcastle to take on local side United (6pm kick off).
Three days later, on Wednesday, February 25, Bulls will host Central Coast Mariners at Campbelltown Stadium, 7pm kick off.