Oakleigh Cannons FC are the 2024 Greek Community Cup champions, defeating Kingston City FC 2-1 in a closely contested affair.
Fans from across the Greek community came together to support their respective teams in the finale of a three-week tournament.
Oakleigh seized an early 1-0 lead, however, Kingston managed to draw level just before halftime, capitalising on a penalty opportunity to even the score.
The second half saw both teams battle fiercely, but it was Oakleigh who ultimately regained their lead, holding on tightly to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory and be claimed just the second ever Greek Community Cup champions.
Both teams previously met in the final round of the round-robin, in what was another close match, with both drawing 1-1.
Kingston were the closest of all the teams to beating Oakleigh, who throughout the entire tournament only conceded three goals, two of which were to Kingston, while scoring 15 goals.
Oakleigh were dominant in the round-robin, beating South Springvale 5-0, and defeating last year’s winner South Melbourne 4-1. In the semi-final, they secured a 3-1 triumph over Heidelberg United.
The championship victory not only earned them the title but also a prize of $3,000, a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout the tournament.
On the other hand, Kingston City FC, while falling short of the ultimate prize, earned the second-place prize of $1,000.
Meanwhile, in the Shield final, South Melbourne Hellas displayed dominance on the field, defeating South Springvale with a commanding 6-0 score line.
Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) president Bill Papastergiadis congratulated the Oakleigh while also expressing the importance the sport has to the community.
“The Greek Community Cup serves as a celebration of our heritage and a showcase of the young talent within our community,” he said in a press release.
“Congratulations to Oakleigh Cannons FC on their well-deserved victory, and kudos to Kingston City FC and all the participating teams for their commendable effort.
“Football has a very strong relationship to Greek Australians given that the formal national soccer team was founded largely from Greek clubs and volunteers of Greek background who formed those clubs.
“These historical football clubs were a major part of our community and this tournament ties in this history with our current young generation of footballers. Acknowledging our history and supporting unity in the football code and its future is an essential part of how our organisation, the GCM expand its social and cultural footprint.”
GCM board member Dr Spiridoula Demetriou called the tournament “memorable” for the sense of community and connection it created.
She said it shows how important community sport is for people and the youth, and says she looks forward to the Girls’ tournament commencing later this year.
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