After a two-year absence, Bentleigh Greens SC has made its way back to the top tier of Victorian football.
On Sunday, at Kingston Heath, George Katsakis’ Greek-Cypriot side defeated Northcote City (Iraklis) 3-1, finishing first on the Victoria Premier League table and clinching the championship title.
The win also secured their promotion to the National Premier League, with players and around 1,500 passionate fans celebrating the achievement.
Northcote took an early lead in the 8th minute with a goal from Alun Webb, briefly stunning the home crowd. But Cyprus United quickly found their rhythm.
Cameron Saul equalised in the 37th minute (1-1) and put his side ahead early in the second half (52′, 2-1).
Leigh Broxham sealed the result with a third goal in the 74th minute, triggering wild celebrations on and off the pitch.
Elsewhere, South Springvale (Leonidas) kept their promotion hopes alive with a 2-0 win over Melbourne City Youth and will now battle through the playoffs for a spot in the NPL.
The second automatic promotion spot went to Caroline Springs George Cross, who demolished Western United Youth 8-0 to finish second on the table. Coached by Eric Vassiliadis, George Cross returns to Victoria’s top division for the first time in 15 years.
