Auckland City FC needed just a draw to secure the Northern League title, while Cashmere Technical required a win to claim the Southern League championship.

Cashmere Technical defeated Ferrymead Bays 3-0 with another solid performance. The goals were scored by Garbhan Coughlan (2) and Danny Kane. As a result, the team, led by Dan Schwarz, reached 46 points from 15 wins, one draw, and just one loss throughout the season. They conceded 18 goals, averaging at least one goal per game, but scored 89, making them the highest-scoring team in the Southern League with a goal difference of +71.

With this result, Cashmere Technical reclaimed the Southern League title after a few years without being champions. Their last titles were in 2021 when they won both the Chatham Cup and the Southern League. The result today means they have also officially qualified for the 2024 National League Championship, where they will contend for the national title and aim to improve upon their fifth-place finish from last season.

On the other hand, Auckland City FC had to wait to be crowned champions of the 2024 Northern League and there was no award ceremony today. This delay was due to Manurewa AFC's surprising victory over Auckland City FC, which could prove crucial in their battle against relegation at the end of the season.

Albert Riera’s squad, facing several injuries and suspensions, fell behind early in the match. Although they equalised with a penalty scored by Angus Kilkolly in the 45th minute, Eber Ramirez quickly restored Manurewa AFC's lead with another penalty just a minute later.

The Navy Blues controlled possession and although Gerard Garriga scored an equaliser close to the end of the match, referee Caleb Downes disallowed the goal for an alleged offside position. The final score was 2-1 in favor of the hosts, Manurewa AFC. 

Despite Birkenhead United losing 3-2 to Tauranga City and Eastern Suburbs failing to beat Hamilton Wanderers, Auckland City FC still could not celebrate or lift the trophy on the field after their game, as they had to await the result of Western Springs, who played against West Coast Rangers at 5:30 PM.

Ultimately, West Coast Rangers secured a valuable point at home, drawing 2-2 with Western Springs, allowing Auckland City FC to clinch the Northern League title once again.

The Navy Blues now head into the Chatham Cup final next Saturday with significant momentum, having secured the regional title.

Article added: Saturday 24 August 2024