South Melbourne hoist inaugural Australian Championship trophy after 2-0 defeat of historic rival
South Melbourne have placed themselves in the history books as the first-ever winners of the Australian Championship competition after besting long-time rivals Marconi Stallions.
A drama-filled first half headlined the game on Saturday afternoon (AEDT) with South Melbourne scoring two goals early to secure their lead and eventual victory.
Manny Aguek scored in the 11th minute, racing past Stallions defender Anton Mlinaric to put his team ahead.
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Eight minutes later, South Melbourne came close again as Jordon Lampard took on a bouncing strike from outside the area, forcing James Hilton into a low save.
South Melbourne became the first ever winners of the Australian Championship. Australian Championships
The resulting corner handed South Melbourne their two-goal lead, adding to a sensational start for the team.
Max Mikkola's right-wing delivery met Marco Jankovic, who sent a header into the far side of the goal.
The Stallions looked to create a defensive attack and had two big chances to halve the deficit just before half time, the first of which saw Damian Tsekenis nod over a left-wing cross.
Deep into stoppage time, Lachlan Griffiths' header bounced towards the goal and slipped out of goalkeeper Javier Lopez's grasp, rolling towards the line.
After a review, it was ruled not a goal for insufficient evidence of the ball crossing the line.
South Melbourne held on to their crushing two-goal advantage, making the most of their blistering start to the match and finished their season by lifting the inaugural Australian Championship trophy.
