Oakleigh Cannons FC has been crowned 2021 NPLM Victoria Premiers, following Avondale FC's 2-1 defeat to Port Melbourne Sharks SC on Tuesday night.
The crowning comes from a solution devised following the cancellation of the NPLM Victoria 2021 season; where the results of the relevant fifty-six 2022 NPLM matches were also applied to the unplayed matches from the 2021 Season.
The Cannons have enjoyed a strong 2022 season, building upon the 34 points the Club earned throughout 18 games in 2021. A win for Avondale FC tonight against Port Melbourne would have been enough to leapfrog Oakleigh, but a 2-1 defeat to Port Melbourne Sharks SC in a tight contest has resulted in the title heading to Jack Edwards Reserve.
Oakleigh have enjoyed many highlights throughout the 2021 and 2022 seasons, including two incredible cup runs this year which has resulted in an upcoming Dockerty Cup Final berth on August 6, and a spot in the Australia Cup Round of 16.
Football Victoria CEO Kimon Taliadoros congratulated Oakleigh Cannons FC on their achievement.
"Whilst the path to crowning the 2021 NPLM Victoria Premier has been anything but conventional, we congratulate Oakleigh on their performance to clinch the title.
"The resilience of Clubs and players across the past two years must be applauded and this title should be celebrated accordingly."
Oakleigh will now turn their attention to the 2022 Premiership race, where they currently sit in second place.
On behalf of the entire Victorian Football community, Football Victoria congratulates Oakleigh Cannons FC.