Auckland City won their third consecutive NZFC title after a 3-2 win over bitter rivals Waitakere United at North Harbour Stadium. City’s victory clinched New Zealand’s second O-League slot for next season with Youngheart Manawatu edged out of contention.
Midfielder Liam Mulrooney put Auckland City in front when he slammed a sensational volley past Mike Utting after 16 minutes. United bounced back with Commins Menapi levelling the game in the 21st minute.
However, Waitakere United’s evening was ruined by the 34th minute sending off of Solomon Islands international striker Commins Menapi after a rash tackle on Riki Van Steeden. Menapi’s absence left United with a mountain to climb after goals to Paul Urlovic (51′) and Neil Sykes (78′) helped put the match beyond the West Aucklanders reach.
Jeff Campbell scored a late consolation goal for Waitakere United in the 93rd minute but it wasn’t enough to prevent Auckland City claiming the title and stretching their unbeaten run in this derby fixture to 13 matches in all competitions spanning three seasons.
Waitakere United’s season is not over yet with the looming 2007 OFC O-League Final, first leg, against Fijian champions Ba at Govind Park on Saturday 21st April. Steve Cain’s men will play Ba in the second leg on Sunday 29th April at Mount Smart Stadium. The winner of the 2007 OFC O-League will face the J-League winner for a slot at the FIFA Club World Cup – Japan 2007.