Sport
8 May, 2026
Maryborough tame Panthers with 5-0 win
The Maryborough Soccer Club’s rampaging start to 2026 continued with a five-star performance against reigning division three premiers Ballarat North United, winning 5-0.
While braces from talisman Julian Callea and veteran Johno Melton put the visitors ahead, an outstanding defensive performance led by Neil Smyth and James Macer ensured the blue and whites kept their first clean sheet of the season.
As they looked to build upon their two dominant victories to start their campaign, the blue and whites received a boost with the club debuts of Tyson Skinner and Lachlan Cullum.
Following a tense opening, it was Mr Reliable Callea who broke the deadlock, putting Maryborough 1-0 up in the 14th minute.
After missing Maryborough’s victory over Ballarat the week prior, 2025 club best and fairest Luke Bucknall marked his return with a sweet strike that doubled the visitors’ advantage inside 30 minutes.
Seven minutes later, the blue and whites had a third, with Melton giving Maryborough a convincing margin.
Ballarat North United had opportunities to cut the deficit late in the first half, but the blue and whites held firm to take a 3-0 lead into half time.
Melton supplied extra security in the 53rd minute, completing his brace early in the second half.
Callea provided a misery compiler for Ballarat North United shortly thereafter, with his 10th goal of the season in the 73rd minute putting Maryborough five goals to the good.
The Panthers’ search for a consolation goal was denied by the Maryborough defence, completing another convincing win.
The blue and whites are one of two teams to hold a 3-0 record heading into round four of the Ballarat and District Soccer Association’s third division this weekend.
However, that will change this Sunday when Maryborough hosts the equally undefeated Victoria Park in their season home opener at Jubilee Oval.
