South Melbourne FC has returned to the pinnacle of the NPLW for the first time since 2017, after miraculously finishing third-last 12 months prior.
The storied club appointed George Georgiadis as head coach in late 2022 after the former Heidelberg United player coached the NPLW 19s and served as caretaker coach in the latter rounds of the season.
Georgiadis was able to turn around this once powerhouse of the NPLW to relevance once again and dethrone the Calder United SC and FC Bulleen Lions stranglehold on the competition in recent seasons.
Speaking post-game, Georgiadis said he was “really proud” his side was able to turn things around so quickly.
“Where do we start, what an amazing year,” he said.
“To this amazing group, 13 months ago, this team finished equal third last, but we really went out to make sure would achieve something this year.
“You deserve this more than anything, be very proud because this is a memory you will take with you.”
At the end of the home and away season, South Melbourne finished third on the table, four points shy of Premiers’ FC Bulleen Lions.
Any doubt of South Melbourne’s credentials was squashed in their 2-0 Semi-Final victory against Boroondara Eagles, who led the competition for much of the year and boasted NPLW Golden Boot winner Kurea Okino.
“The league was a bit full on when you look at how close it was,” Georgiadis said.
“They (FC Bulleen Lions), Calder United won the Nike F.C. Cup and we (South Melbourne) are here winning this one (NPLW Championship).
“Everyone has been great at this club and the ambition is obviously there, you can just tell.
“I am really proud that we were able to do that this year for this historic club.”