After both sides fell short in 2023, redemption was the word on everyone's lips as Campbelltown City and MetroStars clashed in the 2024 RAA NPL Grand Final. Campbelltown wasted no time in making their intentions clear, with goal machine Marc Marino finding the back of the net in just the 5th minute, setting the tone for what would be a thrilling contest.
Image: Club Legends, Alex Mullen and Fabian Barbiero (Image: Pagonis Photography)
Tensions flared early when Hamish Gow’s reckless challenge raised the stakes, but Campbelltown’s dominance only grew. Serio Melta medalist Alex Mullen, fresh off another stellar season, doubled the lead after a sublime killer ball from Marino, sending Campbelltown into halftime with a commanding 2-0 advantage.
Image: Man of the match, Alex Mullen celebrating his first goal of the night (Image: Pagonis Photography)
A hard-fought match reached boiling point when a James Boffa tackle sparked a scuffle that saw Cameron Woodfin sent off, reducing the MetroStars to ten men.
Refusing to go down without a fight, MetroStars pulled one back with a late goal, making for an intense final few minutes. But just when it seemed like they might claw their way back, a turnover saw Josh Mori break through on goal. A desperate challenge from Noah Mcnamara handed Campbelltown a penalty in the dying moments. Up stepped captain Alex Mullen, who once again delivered, sealing the victory and the championship for Campbelltown City.
Match Official, Daniel Cook’s final whistle confirming Campbelltown City are the 2024 RAA NPLSA Champions!
The victory also marked the end of an era for three of Campbelltown’s biggest names. Club stalwarts Jake Halliday and Daniel Mullen both announced their retirements, while coach Michael Matricciani embarks on a new challenge with Melbourne City’s A-League Women’s side.
Image: End of an era for Campbeltown City stalwarts (Image: Pagonis Photography)
Reflecting on the triumph, captain Alex Mullen shared his pride in the moment:
It’s a beautiful way to finish off for Jake Halliday and Daniel Mullen. I love this club, the club’s done so much for me and my family.
Campbelltown City’s club president also weighed in during the post-match broadcast, hailing the night as a brilliant finale to the 2024 season, which ended on a high.
Relive the action with official highlights, or rewatch the entire night, thanks to RAA. It was a fitting conclusion to a fantastic season, as Campbelltown City once again etched their name in the history books.