Bulls FC Academy inflicted the first defeat of the season on league leaders UNSW FC on the weekend.
The 1-0 victory helped the Bulls consolidate second place on the NPLW ladder, just two points from UNSW, after 17 rounds of the competition.
The Bulls, who are the reigning champions, are on 40 points, with UNSW on 42, while there’s a five points gap between the Macarthur team and third placed APIA Leichhardt on 37points.
With seven rounds still to play, the Bulls can still finish first and defend their title from the strongest possible spot.
The Macarthur Rams NPLW team had their round 17 match with Western Sydney Wanderers postponed so did not get the opportunity to improve their position on the ladder.
With 18 points off 16 games, the Rams are five points outside the top six.
But with still plenty of games and points on offer, their destiny is in their own hands.
If they can strong some wins together and finish the season with a wet sail, they can play finals footy in 2026, but time will tell.
In round 18 next Sunday, July 5, the Rams are away to Hills United FC, who are below them on the ladder, followed by another away game against NWS Spirit a week later in round 19.
But back to the champions, Bulls FC Academy, who showed they aren’t giving up that easily on the title, handing UNSW FC their first defeat of 2026.
It was an entertaining first half, but neither team was able to break the deadlock.
Amber Luchtmeijer continued her fine form this season, scoring her 10th goal of the season in the second half to secure all three points for the mighty Bulls.
The potent striker scored four minutes into the second half, getting on the end of an Indi Dos Santos cross to volley home.
The Bulls are playing away from home in round 18, taking on Sydney Olympic next Sunday, July 5.
They return home a week later to host the Illawarra Stringrays in round 19.
