The Black Knights are flying high! Auckland FC have officially secured the A-League Men’s Premiers Plate — and they celebrated the milestone in style, wrapping up a 1–0 win over Perth Glory at Mt Smart Stadium.
The Plate was already in the bag before the players even stepped onto the pitch, after Melbourne City FC drew 2–2 with Adelaide United late on Saturday night. That result meant Auckland could no longer be caught on the ladder — a historic achievement for a club in their inaugural season.
Still, Sunday’s match wasn’t just a formality. In front of a roaring sellout crowd, Auckland FC wanted to put on a show, and they delivered. Despite heavy pressure throughout the first half — and some superb goalkeeping from Perth’s Oli Sail — the breakthrough finally came just after the hour mark. A stunning corner kick from Marlee Francois curled straight into the net, sending the crowd into raptures.
While the scoreboard might suggest a tight affair, Auckland absolutely dominated. They fired off 28 shots in total, with relentless attacks and crisp passing lighting up the wet afternoon. Perth defended doggedly, and Auckland’s finishing touch sometimes went missing, but the energy and quality on display made it clear why the Black Knights have been the team to beat all season.
Now on a 14-game unbeaten streak, Auckland FC have made history — becoming just the second team in A-League history to win the Premiership in their first season. With the finals series looming, and the possibility of hosting the Grand Final on home soil, this fairytale run could still have a few more thrilling chapters to come.
