Sydney FC’s Liberty A-League squad have made history by becoming the first team to win five A-League Women’s Championships.
The Sky Blues’ 1-0 win over Melbourne City this afternoon thanks to a solitary goal from Shea Connors set the new record and ensured Sydney FC win back to back Championships for the first time, moving one ahead of their defeated opponents who remain on four titles.
It was Sydney FC’s seventh consecutive Grand Final under Head Coach Ante Juric who achieves his sixth major honour with Sydney FC, including three Championships and three Premierships.
It has also been achieved with a squad whose average age is just 21 years old – the lowest in the competition, topped off by a fantastic assist for the winning goal from 16-year-old Indiana Dos Santos.
“I’m extremely proud and thankful to all of our players, my staff, our Members and fans and everyone at Sydney FC who has supported us,” said Juric.
“This has been the toughest year to coach by far having had so many changes from last year’s team, to go to Uzbekistan midway during the season and to have a lot of injuries early on, plus losing a lot of players to the under 20’s Asian Cup recently.
“Everyone has pulled together, put in a fantastic effort and we’ve worked very hard.
“To have made history with this record is another unbelievable achievement and I’m delighted for everyone involved.
“We’ll celebrate it tonight and look forward to achieving more history next season.”
Sydney FC Captain Natalie Tobin has been present for four out of the Sky Blues’ five Championship wins.
She congratulated her team-mates and the work ethic and culture at the club.
“Our squad has been phenomenal this season and overcome so much. I can’t praise them enough,” she said.
“We have a large group but there’s a really great culture which every single one of our players buys into, and they are all deserving of this record-breaking achievement.
“It’s been tough to take a back seat this season but I’m so proud of the way Princess (Ibini) has led the team and of all the experienced players for stepping up during a turbulent season.
“We will enjoy this and then look to next season and winning three Championships in a row.”
Sydney FC’s Women’s squad have won a total of ten Championship and Premiership titles since the A-League Women’s competition inception 16 seasons ago which is three more than any other club.
They also have never missed a Finals Series.
