Grand Final - Season Finale

After the longest season we’ve ever faced — stretched an extra 8 weeks beyond the norm — it all came down to one final game.

There were changes from the semi-final, with Nuno making his return despite back soreness, while CJ bravely stepped up in goals carrying bruised ribs. With three subs on standby and Nathan Hanna ready if needed, the squad was set and ready for the challenge.

From kickoff, the game opened up quickly and it was Rosso Nero FC creating the better chances early. Inside the first five minutes, we had three clear one-on-one opportunities — all denied by Merendinho’s keeper. Long-range efforts followed, but again, their keeper stood tall.

We kept pushing, knowing chances would eventually fall our way. The breakthrough came through excellent team play — quick ball movement and smart positioning opened up a 2v1, finished with a simple tap-in. 1–0 Rosso Nero FC.

That goal sparked Merendinho into life. After a series of attacking phases, they found a way through, curling a shot past CJ to level things at 1–1.

We responded immediately. In a dominant five-minute spell, we created four chances and converted two of them to take a 3–1 lead with seven minutes remaining in the half.

But the momentum began to shift.

Despite more one-on-one chances — again denied by their outstanding keeper — Merendinho hit back on the counter to make it 3–2. Soon after, a turnover from the back saw them break 3v1 and level the game at 3–3.

Even late in the half, we continued to create — three more big chances all saved. Then, in a brutal two-minute stretch, Merendinho struck twice on quick counters.

Half-time: 5–3 down.

A tough scoreline to accept given the flow of the game. The message at the break was simple: keep going — the chances are there, we just need to finish.

The second half followed a similar pattern. We dominated possession and created chance after chance, but their keeper continued a performance for the ages — saving everything, including yet another one-on-one.

Pushing forward left us exposed, and Merendinho capitalised to extend the lead to 6–3.

Still, we refused to give in. Cody produced a moment of brilliance with a cracking finish to bring it back to 6–4, giving us hope with nine minutes remaining.

But again, missed chances proved costly. Another one-on-one saved. Another big moment gone.

Merendinho broke forward, but CJ came up with two huge saves to keep us alive. We surged forward again… only for yet another one-on-one to be denied.

As frustration crept in, gaps opened — and Merendinho punished us with two quick goals.

8–4 with two minutes left.

In the dying moments, we threw everything forward. Long shots, set pieces — all stopped by a keeper who simply could not be beaten. With 30 seconds left, CJ pushed up for a final corner, creating one last chance… saved again. A final counter sealed it.

Full-time: 9–4. Heartbreak.

It’s a tough one to take. A Grand Final where we created countless clear-cut chances — but came up against a goalkeeper who delivered a true masterclass.

Six one-on-one saves. Two 2v1 stops. Multiple top-corner denials. A performance that ultimately decided the match.

Season Reflection

Despite the result, what a season it has been.

+Grand Finalists

+League Runners-Up

+Finals Runners-Up

+3rd highest scoring team

+Best defensive team all season

More importantly, this team showed incredible character — playing through injuries, never giving up, and backing each other every step of the way. A season full of quality football, teamwork, and unforgettable moments.

We couldn’t be prouder of every player who wore the Rosso Nero FC shirt.

Thank You

A huge thank you to our major sponsor Hanna Lending Services — your support has been invaluable all season.

To our supporters and cheer squad — your energy every week drives us to keep pushing and improving.

Looking Ahead

Grand Final highlights will be up on YouTube — make sure to check them out.

As we head into the new season starting next week, there will be some changes:

Nuno, Seb, Marcus, and Gabe will be stepping back next season.

Gabe and Marcus may fill in when available with three new players joining the squad and debuting in our colours.

Final Word

An incredible season that unfortunately ended in heartbreak — but one we can all be proud of.

We go again. 💪