Jets Celebrate Premiership as Finals Picture Locked In: Round 26 A-League Wrap

Alexander Bebendorf

The final round of the Isuzu UTE A-League regular season delivered goals, drama, and clarity at both ends of the table, as Newcastle Jets celebrated their Premiership in style and the finals matchups were confirmed. With positions decided on the final day, the race for second and the last finals spots went right down to the wire.

Jets Crown Season with Statement Win

Newcastle Jets marked their Premiership triumph with a commanding 4-0 win over Central Coast Mariners in front of a party atmosphere at McDonald Jones Stadium. The victory capped a dominant campaign, while it also signalled the end of the road for Mariners boss Warren Moon after an up-and-down season.

Adelaide Snatch Second in Dramatic Finish

Adelaide United secured second place in remarkable fashion, defeating Melbourne City 2-1 thanks to Luka Jovanovic’s last-gasp winner. The result sees Adelaide leapfrog Auckland FC and claim a crucial bye into the semi-finals, completing one of the most dramatic finishes to the regular season.

Auckland Slip Into Elimination Final

Auckland FC were held to a 2-2 draw by Sydney FC, twice surrendering the lead at Allianz Stadium. The dropped points, combined with Adelaide’s late win, saw Auckland fall to third, meaning they will now host Melbourne City in an Elimination Final.

Victory Finish Strong, Wanderers End Miserable Campaign

Melbourne Victory closed out their season with a 2-0 win over Western Sydney Wanderers, taking strong form into the finals. For the Wanderers, the defeat caps a difficult season that ends with the Wooden Spoon.

Bulls and Glory End on High

Macarthur Bulls, despite missing the finals, finished their season with an emphatic 4-0 win over Wellington Phoenix. Perth Glory also ended their campaign positively, defeating Brisbane Roar 2-1, consigning the Roar to a second-last finish after a tough season.

Finals Matchups Set

With the regular season complete, the Finals Series is now locked in. Sydney FC will face Melbourne Victory in a blockbuster Elimination Final, while Auckland FC host reigning champions Melbourne City. Meanwhile, Premiers Newcastle Jets and second-placed Adelaide United earn a week off as they await their semi-final opponents.