Wellington Olympic have won back-to-back Central League titles after beating arch-rivals Miramar Rangers in the last game of the season.
Connor Gaul, playing his first season in New Zealand after joining Olympic from English club Workington Town, scored the only goal of the game to give Olympic a 1-0 win under Friday night lights at Wakefield Park.
Photo: Connor Gaul joined Olympic in April after arriving from the UK. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.
Going into the game, Olympic needed a draw or better to secure the title while Rangers had to take three points.
The sides were locked 0-0 at half-time, a scoreline that suited Olympic and forced Rangers to go in search of a winner that would bring them the title.
Five minutes into the second spell, Rangers captain Sam Dewar went close, his shot striking the upright.
With 10 minutes to go, substitute Gaul grabbed the winner, giving Rangers the daunting task of having to score twice against a side that conceded only 15 goals all season.
For Rangers, it was their first loss in five months and another runners-up spot.
The sides will get chance to settle the score though — they are due to meet at David Farrington Park on November 27 in the final game for both sides in the Men’s National League due to start next weekend.
Result
Game played on Friday September 23, 2022
Wellington Olympic 1 (Connor Gaul 80′)
Miramar Rangers 0
Standings
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