Forty-six years without a title. Maitland are one win away

Maitland FC are heading to the NPL NNSW Grand Final after ending defending champions Broadmeadow Magic’s season with a 1-0 victory at Magic Park.

After absorbing plenty of first-half pressure, the Magpies struck four minutes after the break when captain Braedyn Crowley headed home Luke Corcoran’s cross.

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Magic pushed desperately for an equaliser, having a goal ruled out for offside before Golden Boot winner Luis Lara Delgado struck the woodwork late, but Maitland held firm to book their place in the decider.

The result ended Magic’s hopes of an historic third consecutive Premiership-Championship double, with Jim Cresnar’s side instead turning their attention towards the Australian Championship.

For Maitland, something even bigger awaits.

They will face fierce rivals Weston Bears in the Grand Final for the first time in NPL Northern NSW history, with Weston chasing their first Championship in 31 years.

Maitland’s wait stretches even further.

The Magpies haven't been crowned champions since 1980, leaving them one victory away from ending a 46-year drought.

And the occasion could become even more significant for the club, with Maitland qualifying teams for the Grand Final across the senior and reserve grades in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

“We've taken our opportunity,” coach Adam Hughes said via Football NNSW. “They're deserving of this opportunity coming next weekend.”