Less than a year on from fighting to survive, Fremantle City lifted silverware

Fremantle City completed a remarkable turnaround by defeating NPL WA Premiers Bayswater City 3-2 to win the Men’s State Cup, less than a year after fighting to preserve their top-flight status.

Scott Miller’s side prevailed in a thrilling final at the Sam Kerr Football Centre, with Charlie Chechlacz converting an 87th-minute penalty to secure the club’s first State Cup triumph under the Fremantle City name.

Bayswater had taken the lead in spectacular fashion through Daniel Stynes, whose first-half volley flew in off the underside of the crossbar.

Fremantle responded before the break, with former Socceroo Josh Risdon creating the opening for Taj Bingwa to turn and finish.

Risdon was involved again after the interval as Chad Nilson put Fremantle ahead, only for Cameron Teece to restore parity for the Premiers three minutes later and set up a frantic finish.

The decisive moment arrived with extra time looming. Nilson was brought down by Bayswater captain Luke Palmateer and Chechlacz, the 2025 NPL WA Gold Medal winner, made no mistake from the spot.

Risdon was awarded the Stan Lazaridis Medal as Player of the Match after playing an influential role in two of Fremantle’s goals, continuing the impact he has made since joining the club midway through the season.

The victory completes an impressive rise under Miller. Fremantle only retained their NPL WA place through the relegation play-offs last year, but responded in 2026 by challenging near the top of the league, reaching the Australia Cup Round of 16 and now finishing the campaign with silverware.