In a festive atmosphere and with warm weather, South Melbourne and Doncaster Rovers were crowned champions after defeating Mill Park and Malvern City respectively, both with a result of 2-0.
The Greek Community Cup final, saw South Melbourne dominate the first half, during which they scored both goals. The Mill Park hosts tried to regain possession of the ball, however, the difference in the two teams’ dynamic was evident.
In the Community Shield match, Doncaster Rovers capitalised on their dominance over Malvern City to win 2-0, with goals from Luca Barruto and Xavier Cabai, one in each half. Cabai’s goal came almost as a miracle; a result of an amazing individual effort.
Immigration Minister Andrew Giles, alongside the President of the Greek Community of Melbourne Bill Papastergiadis, conducted the award ceremony following the matches, assisted by the members of the organisation’s board of directors, Michalis Karamitou, Marini Pyrpyri, Jim Bosinaki and Vickys Kyritsis; the president of Channel 31 Mike Zafeiropoulos – who covered both matches live – and the president of hosts Mill Park SC, Jim Christou.
Mr Giles thanked the Greek Community for organising such a seamless community sporting event.
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
Photo: Con Deves
“It has been four wonderful weeks for football and we sincerely thank Jim Christou and the entire Board of Directors of Mill Park, as well as the volunteers and everyone who worked to bring over this wonderful event,” said Michalis Karamitos, one of the vice-presidents of the Greek Community.
Mr Karamitos shared his excitement for the next Greek Cup, adding that the “institution will be expanded to include junior competitions – for boys and girls – as well as for women.”
“The tournament was created to unite community forces through football, but also to kick start a campaign to strengthen the learning of Greek language through football activities,” Bill Papastergiadis said, after congratulating the South Melbourne champions.
Sharing his excitement, South Melbourne Football Club President Nikos Maikousis said that “South Melbourne still is the most successful team in Australia with a long history behind it,” before extending his gratitude to the cup organisers, the Greek Community of Melbourne as well as the Mill Park hosts.
