Sport
31 July, 2026
Callea’s 90th minute goal salvages match
Maryborough star Julian Callea’s 90th minute equaliser salvaged the blue and white’s top of the table clash with Ballarat North United on Sunday.
Sunday’s draw means Maryborough and Ballarat North have dealt each other the complete trifecta — a win, loss and draw apiece from their three meetings this season.
With the blue and whites comfortably sitting on top of the ladder, Ballarat North, currently in second, are the only side this season to have repeatedly tested their ability on the field.
When the two sides last met in June, it was Ballarat who manufactured a 1-2 victory, no doubt doing some homework after Maryborough kept them goalless while kicking five of their own back in round four.
Maryborough’s most recent defeat to the side seemed to light a fire in their belly on Sunday, with probing attacks and strong ball control resulting in a Luke Bucknall goal at the 27 minute mark.
The 1-0 margin held true for most of the game, but errors from a visiting Maryborough proved costly as Ballarat North were quick to capitalise with two goals of their own in the 72nd and 87th minutes.
From there, Sunday’s clash turned almost frenetic as Ballarat — eager to secure their second win over Maryborough — fought hard to maintain the lead against a dogged and determined Maryborough.
While Ballarat North were eager to maintain their winning ways over the better side, Maryborough were out for redemption against the hardy underdogs.
The back and forth continued right up until the final minute of play, where Maryborough’s own golden boy Callea goaled to bring the scores level moments before the final whistle.
It was Callea’s 21st goal in just 11 games in what can only be described as a stellar season for Maryborough’s key striker.
With finals slated for September, Maryborough will look to hold closely to its coveted minor premier position at the top of the ladder, set to play Victoria Park at their home ground this Sunday.
The outcome will be one to watch, as the last time these sides met back in June it was a close 1-2 win for Maryborough, highlighting the depth Victoria Park’s squad feature.