Oakleigh Cannons FC have been crowned National Premier Leagues (NPL) Victoria Men’s Champions for 2022 after defeating South Melbourne FC 5-0 at Olympic Village on Sunday night.
It was a tough start to the match, with a first minute header by Oakleigh’s Aryn Williams the only goal scored, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.
Things heated up in the second half but South Melbourne still weren’t able to make any gains.
Oakleigh’s Williams scored again in the 47th minute, Chris Lucas in the 78th minute, Joe Guest in the 84th minute, and Wade Dekker sealed the match win in the 90th minute with the final goal.
After scoring the first two goals and putting in a mighty shift all night, Williams was awarded the 2022 Jimmy Rooney Medal for Player of the Match.
In a post on Facebook, Oakleigh congratulated its players on their win and wished South Melbourne all the best for next season.
“Congratulations to South Melbourne on a great 2022 and we wish them the best,” the Club’s post read.
“To the Oakleigh Cannons players, congratulations on an extraordinary year!!! You played with heart and soul and you deserve the championship!!”
South Melbourne acknowledged their loss on Facebook and thanked the fans for their support.
“It clearly wasn’t a night to remember for us on the park, but everyone at the club would like to thank our amazing and loyal fans who turned out in the driving rain to support the club once again,” South Melbourne’s post read.
“We thank each and every one of you for continuing to support us and keeping that flame alive.”
This match was the first time South Melbourne had qualified for an NPL Victoria Grand Final since 2016. The Club secured the NPL Victoria Men’s Premiership earlier this year with a sensational 1-0 defeat of Dandenong City at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium.
