NWS Spirit FC secured its first ever National Premier League NSW Men’s Premiership thanks to a 3-1 win over Central Coast Mariners at Christie Park.
Saving one of their best performances for a big night for the club, Yu Okubo was involved throughout scoring a brace before Michael Konestabo took the lead out to three before the hour mark.
Riding the momentum wave from their midweek win over St George FC that secured Australian Championship status, the competition leaders looked confident early on rewarded with a goal before the 10th minute.
A dangerous Ollie Wiggin ball from the right taking a deflection before falling at the feet of Yu Okubo. His shot glanced off the post before bouncing over the line.
The hosts continuing to pepper the visitors goal with chances to Okubo and Jamie Percevski following.
Jai Rose had the Mariners first notable chance of the game, the young gun hooking his effort wide from inside the area in the 32nd minute after a delivery from the right wing.
Spirit had the final opportunity of the first half as Takumi Ofuka put his shot wide across goal after Michael Konestabo cut the ball back to him in first half injury time.
In control of the fixture, Spirit found their second of the evening ten minutes into the second half. Takumi Ofuka picking the ball up in the centre circle and playing in Okubo first time. The in-form striker taking it around the keeper before finishing.
Two became three soon after. The other member of the front three in Michael Konestabo added their third with a thunderous strike on the half volley after finding space outside his man.
Spirit for the most part were in control of the game right up until the Mariners found a goal back.
That goal came from a Harrison Jablonski long range shot which took a deflection on it’s path towards goal. Spirit keeper Christopher Marques making a reflex save before Harper Ryles tapped it into the back of the net.
The final whistle soon blew and Christie Park was a sea of people as t he club historically celebrated its first ever NPL Men’s NSW Premiership after an amazing year.
Post game NWS Spirit FC coach David Petkovic reflected on a historic achievement for the club.
“It’s surreal at the moment. Very Very proud moment for us, not just the players but the staff and the people behind the scenes.
“We’ve been real good in a lot of games of late and we knew they have improved of late with just one loss in their last eight so the second goal allowed us to breathe easier after dominating territory and possession.”
While Spirit captain Grant Cornwell was overjoyed seeing his beloved Spirit finally capture a top tier men’s title.
“It’s been a long time coming.
“Our club has been moving forward ever since Perko came in.
“I’ve been very fortunate to be apart of some historic moments this season. This season has been unbelievable.”
Originally published at Football NSW
