Ross Papadakis 
Macarthur FC captain Valere Germain. Photo: Texi Smith
Macarthur FC have booked their ticket to the 2024 Australia Cup Final as a late Valere Germain penalty helped them overcome NPL Victoria’s South Melbourne 1-0 in front of a passionate and animated crowd at Lakeside Stadium.
The win marks their second final appearance in just three years, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the competition.
Macarthur will be without their captain Germain for the final, who has scored four goals for Macarthur this campaign, after receiving his second booking at the depths of the full-time whistle.
His absence will be a significant blow to Macarthur, but coach Mile Sterjovski remains optimistic.
“It’s going to be a big loss,” he acknowledged.
“But I have faith in my boys and we’re looking forward to next week.”
The home crowd at Lakeside Stadium was electric as NPL Victoria Premiers South Melbourne burst out of the gates with intensity.
Their relentless pressure had the home crowd on the edge of their seats, and a collective gasp erupted when Filip Kurto made a phenomenal goal-line save to deny Max Mikkola a surefire goal.
The rest of the first half was a tense battle, with both teams showcasing resolute defending that prevented any breakthroughs.
The second half saw a shift in tactics from the visitors as Macarthur adopted a more cautious approach, absorbing South Melbourne’s attacking waves, but they still managed to create chances.
A brilliant through ball from Marin Jakolis found Daniel De Silva, who weaved through defenders but ultimately sent his shot over the bar. The game remained a nail-biter, with South Melbourne nearly breaking the deadlock as Cooper Halfpenny’s shot narrowly missed the target.
A collision between South Melbourne’s Lucas Inglese and Jake Hollman saw the Bulls midfielder fall in the box in the 83rd minute and awarded a penalty.
Germain rifled the ball into the back of the net to give his side the late lead and secure a spot in the 2024 Australia Cup Final.
With the date, time, and venue yet to be announced, Macarthur set their sights on Melbourne Victory in the 2024 Australia Cup Final, who advanced following a 1-0 victory over Adelaide United.