Newcastle Jets have clinched their first A-League Men's premiership after Central Coast Mariners defeated second-placed Auckland FC 1-0 on Sunday. Ali Auglah's 19th-minute goal at Mount Smart Stadium was enough to secure the upset victory, leaving Auckland unable to bridge the four-point gap to Newcastle with one round remaining.
The match was interrupted by a 30-minute weather delay just before halftime as a storm lashed the stadium. Auckland emerged energized after the stoppage but could not find an equalizer, with former Socceroos goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne making several saves and defender James Donachie producing a miraculous goal-line clearance in the 68th minute.
Donachie had been at the center of controversy earlier in the match when he was yellow-carded for stepping on Auckland striker Sam Cosgrove following a mid-air collision. Officials reviewed replays but deemed the act unintentional, avoiding a red card.
Newcastle will be presented with the Premier's Plate after Saturday's F3 derby against the Mariners. Auckland's top-two spot is now vulnerable, with Sydney FC able to snatch second position with a three-goal win in the final round.
