The 2025 APEX Steel WNPLSA Grand Final delivered all the drama South Australian football fans could have hoped for, as Adelaide Comets claimed their first WNPL Championship with a 1-0 victory over Campbelltown City at ServiceFM Stadium on Saturday, 6 September.
In front of a lively crowd of over 1,732 people across the day’s Grand Finals, both sides came into the decider determined to etch their names in history. After a nerve-wracking first half where neither team found the breakthrough, it was Comets forward Chrissy Panagaris who broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute.
Her clinical finish not only proved decisive but also cemented her place in Comets’ history. Campbelltown, who had battled through an extraordinary season in the APEX Steel WNPL, pushed hard for an equaliser. Their best chance came when Chelsea Dawber rattled the crossbar late in the match, but the Comets defence held firm to secure the title.
The victory sees Comets join Metro United, Adelaide City, Salisbury Inter, and West Adelaide as the only clubs to have lifted the WNPL Grand Final trophy, marking a significant milestone for the club.
Match-winner Chrissy Panagaris spoke of the journey that led to this historic moment:
“I’m very emotional right now, it’s been a very long four years with this club, with this team, the ups and downs that we all had coming through from 2021 from when it all pretty well started, and it’s all finally paid off. It’s just the timing.”
Her words summed up the emotions of a day that not only celebrated Comets’ triumph but also highlighted the continued growth and quality of women’s football in South Australia.
Relive all the action with our Official Match Hightlights!
Congratulations to all the Champions on the day!
APEX Steel WNPLSA Grand Final – Adelaide Comets
APEX Steel WNPLSA Reserves Grand Final – Football South Australia State Squads
Women’s Community Division 1/2/3 – Pembroke Old Scholars
Women’s Community Division 4/5/6 – Parafield Gardens