Match Reviews | CALDER United overcame a 16-point deficit at half-time to win a one-point thriller against Birchip-Watchem Bulls in Saturday’s second round in Goldacres North Central senior footy.

The rematch of the ’25 grand final between the Lions and Bulls did not disappoint the many fans who turned up to the Bulls’ pen at George Cartwright Oval in Birchip.

Birchip-Watchem led 21-18 at quarter-time and then won the second term, 26-13.

The Jordan Humphreys and Tom Bickley-coached Calder United powered back to be within four points going into the final quarter.

Consecutive goals by gun recruit Steven Stroobants put the Lions up 71-65 in the 15th minute.

After a hat-trick of behinds, Birchip-Watchem goaled through Will Lee to make it 72-73.

Not long after the siren sounded.

Recruited from South Bendigo, Stroobants capped a great match with five goals and best afield honours.

The Bulls’ attack was led by Meyrick Buchanan on three.

Best the Lions were Stroobants, Steven Kennedy, Rylee Smith, Dean Putt, Hunter Connolly and George Turner.

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