Melbourne City FC have won the Foxtel National Youth League title in dramatic circumstances on the final day of the competition, following a 2-2 draw with Newcastle Jets at Magic Park on Sunday.
With Joe Palatsides’ side top of the table, but ahead of Perth Glory by goal difference only before the beginning of play, there were plenty of permutations prior to kick-off – especially considering Perth’s opponent on the final day was third-placed Brisbane Roar, which, with 32 points, was also in the running for the title.
A win for Melbourne City FC would almost certainly secure the title, but in the event of a draw, City’s destiny was in the hands of Glory and Roar, with either side able to snatch the championship with a win – although in Brisbane’s case it would have to be by a margin of two goals.
The 2-2 draw with the Jets meant Melbourne City FC were forced to await the outcome of Perth’s match with Brisbane, but despite Perth scoring first, Roar overturned the one goal deficit, completing a come from behind 2-1 win; the only result which suited Melbourne City in the circumstances.
Palatsides’ side, who had boarded the bus to Newcastle Airport disappointed but hopeful after walking away with a point from Magic Park, learned of the final result from Western Australia in transit.
Earlier in Newcastle, Melbourne City FC commenced the day in blistering fashion, scoring the opener in the second minute through Stefan Zinni.
But the Jets hit back on the counter attack, as Bradey Crowley delivered a powerful cut back across the penalty area, forcing Jonantan Germano to bundle his attempted clearance into his own net.
Germano would redeem himself, restoring City’s lead in the 52nd minute, but with two minutes of regulation play remaining, the Jets equalised to force a 2-2 draw.
The late blow was compounded by the news that Perth Glory were 1-0 up in the opening stages of their encounter with Brisbane; if the scores stayed that way, Perth would finish top of the table.
But with Brisbane’s comeback win, Melbourne City FC secured the title via a superior ‘goals for’ column – with both the points and goal difference columns on the league table equal with the Roar.
