Complaints were common and tempers flared during the heated contest, but the Redbacks’ superior pressure and aggressive play gave them the edge. 

The first ten minute period was a tight arm wrestle, with both sides seeking the breakthrough which would swing the momentum their way. 

Eventually, it was the Redbacks who broke the ice first, scoring a goal as a result of some sharp passing up the wing. 

From that moment, the impetus was with Yass, who proceeded to dominate play for the remainder of the first half and scored another goal to go into the half-time break 2-0. 

However, the Bullocks lifted after the break, and pressed the Redbacks’ defense more consistently throughout the second half.

Eventually, the constant pressure became too much, and Gundaroo broke through for their first goal of the match. 

For a period, it seemed as though the Bullocks’ initial breakthrough would lead to at least one more, however the Yass defense rallied and refused to yield to consistent attempts at goal. 

Neither team found the net again during the match, meaning the Redbacks walked away with a convincing victory over the table-toppers, who after this weekend lost their first-place standing to Canberra City. 

Yass coach Grant Taylor believes that this win is indicative of the ability his team possesses, and is confident that a consistent second half of the season could see the Redbacks improve on their current fourth place standing. 

“We needed that one [victory] today,” Taylor said. 

“But these guys [Gundaroo] are leading the comp so … excellent win.” 

However, Taylor is aware that there are still some technical adjustments to be made if the Redbacks hope to consistently challenge the top teams. 

“We’ve got to push forward as a team, basically. When we get it, we’ve got to be confident with the ball.

“There were patches of that today, and we look good when we do that. 

“We’ve [also] been working on our guys at the front facing the ball, not playing too many through balls and that.”

Despite the constant back-and-forth during the game, which at one point almost erupted into a brawl, both teams seemed in good spirits at the final whistle. 

The Redbacks will be looking to to carry their good form from the weekend into their next clash against ANU FC, which will take place at ANU Willows 1 next Saturday at 3:00 pm.