Sydney FC are officially the 2016-17 A-League premiers after Melbourne Victory's 1-0 loss to Brisbane Roar on Saturday made it mathematically impossible to be caught at the top.
The Sky Blues, who are due to play Perth Glory away on Sunday, are now 11 points clear of second-placed Victory who have three games to play.
The Premier's Plate is Sydney's first piece of silverware since lifting the 2009-10 A-League championship with a penalty shootout win over Victory.
Sydney has a remarkable 56 points from 23 games, having lost just once all season as they chase a record haul.
The moment @SydneyFC won the Premier's Plate during dinner in Perth & a message from Arnie that we're not finished yet #SydneyIsSkyBlue pic.twitter.com/000hRI6Ta2
— Sydney FC (@SydneyFC) March 26, 2017
Sydney FC Head Coach Graham Arnold said he was happy to claim his first piece of silverware with the Sky Blues but cautioned there was still a lot more to come from the players.
“I’m extremely pleased for the players after the hard work they have put in this season. It’s been about mateship, trust, belief and having the right mentality,” he said.
“While winning the Premier’s Plate is nice, the journey is still not over and our goals are still to be fully achieved.
“We want to be the most successful team in Hyundai A-League history by accumulating a record number of points and also to be crowned Champions.
“I believe we still have more improvement in our performances and we will be ready to hit our best form come finals times.
“We came very close in my first year here at Sydney FC but have now succeeded and I’d like to thank Chairman Scott Barlow and the board, Chief Executive Officer Tony Pignata and my entire staff for the wonderful support they have given me this year.
“I’d also like to thank the Sydney FC Members and fans for their backing and hope they can enjoy this win, but for us the hard work goes on.”
Sydney FC Captain Alex Brosque said he was pleased for the playing group to have secured the Sky Blues second Premiers Plate title.
“It’s a great to deliver the Premiers Plate for our wonderful Members and fans,” Brosque said.
“As a playing group it’s fantastic to see all the sacrifices and sweat pay off. We’re extremely happy yet fully focused on the remainder of the season and Finals Series.
“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in the stands to celebrate our win at our next home clash against Melbourne City on the April 1.”
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