A loud and passionate crowd filled the stands of Olympic Village to witness Avondale claim its first-ever NPLM Championship on Sunday, September 10.
The Avengers proved too strong from the first whistle, putting four goals past the strong South Melbourne defence.
Avondale coach Zoran Markovski was overjoyed with emotion post-game, proving the haters wrong.
“I am so proud of this group, it’s a massive achievement,” he said.
“These two teams have been the best two teams in Victorian football, I know we struggled a bit last year, but what a contest today.
“We took our moments, South had some opportunities and then we finished them off in the end.
“I am really proud of a coach to say we are not only the best team in Victoria but the best team in Australia.
“With the fans tonight we are going to enjoy this one big time and to the haters of Avondale you can see all the support we got today, they made more noise than anybody else in the crowd."
Avondale didn’t hinder from its home and away form, putting South Melbourne on the back foot early, with Kristian Tracjeski setting up Zander Guy for a shot on target in the fourth minute of the match.
South Melbourne soon found their groove and Max Mikkola’s long throws were creating quality forward chances for the Hellas.
The first big chance of the game came through Avondale’s Zander Guy who hit the crossbar with a brilliant strike from outside the box in the 20th minute.
A matter of moments later, South goalkeeper Javier Lopez caused a half to the game after needing treatment for an apparent leg injury.
Zander Guy delivered for the Avengers after looking likely early, opening in the scoring in the 28th minute with a stunning strike from outside of the box, sending the Avenger fans into celebration.
After only naming one traditional goalkeeper on the team sheet, a scare went through the Avondale camp when Thomas Manos received a heavy blow, but the shot-stopper was able to recover and return to play.
South Melbourne tried to work themselves back into the game as the first half wore on, however, were not able to capitalise.
On the brink of half-time, Stefan Zinni was able to guide the ball to the far post and rebound into the back of the net, forcing Javier Lopez to watch on as the match continued to slip away.
The two teams returned from the main break and Avondale continued to push, with Lopez providing two nice saves to keep his side alive.
Down two goals, South brought on Yagoub Mustafa hoping for a spark, but veteran striker Liam Boland was the one who made an instant impact – scoring a belting goal in the 79th minute.
Avondale inflicted one final blow in stoppage time, with Liston Diaz finding the back of the net to secure the Championship for South Melbourne.
Avondale captain Ayden Brice was named best on the ground for his defensive effort and exquisite leadership on the day.