Last-minute coach Zane ends Weston's 31-year drought
Damian Zane accepted an SOS coaching role days before the season and immediately delivered Weston its first championship in 31 years.
On Sunday, Weston beat Maitland 2-0 in the Northern NSW NPL grand final, claiming their first title since 1995. Damian Zane took the job as emergency coach after the previous coach stepped down for family reasons, arriving just as the season was about to start.
Luke McCormick opened the scoring with a header in the 46th minute. Teenager Max Wettig sealed the win with a second goal in the 56th.
Goalkeeper Gerard Roebuck made key saves late to protect the lead. McCormick took the man-of-the-match medal.
The final whistle sparked emotional scenes among the Weston faithful, many wearing black commemorative shirts.
- 31 years
- Years since last title
- Weston 2, Maitland 0
- Grand final score
- Hired on eve of season
- Days before season start
- Fourth victory
- Zane's grand final record
Why it mattersA club waits 31 years for a title; a coach brought in on an emergency basis delivers it instantly, proving a sudden appointment can work.
AustraliaA regional NSW football club ends its longest championship drought, with the win drawing huge local crowds.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 d ago
