The Central Coast Mariners secured their first-ever A-League Women championship after defeating Melbourne Victory 5-4 on penalties, following a thrilling 1-1 draw after extra time.

Having returned to the league just two years ago after a 14-year absence, the Mariners’ remarkable rise culminated in a fairy-tale victory on Sunday at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.

Isabel Gomez, who was outstanding throughout the match, was named player of the match as she led the Mariners’ midfield with relentless drive and tenacity. Injured Matildas captain Sam Kerr watched the enthralling contest from the stands among 6,568 spectators.

Central Coast’s path to glory was marked by a dramatic climb from fourth place, overcoming Canberra United, Melbourne City, and finally Melbourne Victory to claim the title.

“Last year, I think we surprised many by reaching the semi-finals,” said Bianca Galic, who scored the winning penalty. “This year, not many expected us to even make the semis, let alone go all the way.”

Galic, who calmly converted the decisive spot-kick, joked about Kerr’s presence: “She can come celebrate with us.”

Second-year coach Emily Husband, aged 35, who assembled the Mariners squad, secured her maiden trophy, denying Victory’s Jeff Hopkins a record fifth championship. Husband becomes only the fourth female coach to win the A-League Women title, following Jitka Klimkova (2012), Liesbeth Migchelsen (2014), and Jess Fishlock (2016-17, player/coach). She is the first woman to win a grand final since 2017.

“I was definitely overcome with emotion. I’m not usually a crier, but I cried like a baby,” said Husband. “This means so much to everyone — the players, the staff, the club. To see the girls get it over the line is an incredible achievement.

“The team dug deep. I can’t imagine how exhausted they must be after such a demanding few weeks. I’m immensely proud.”

When asked about the future, Husband was clear: “Winning the league next is the target,” adding that she was confident in retaining her squad.

The penalty shootout saw Victory’s Alana Jancevski hit the crossbar with the opening attempt, while Central Coast converted every spot-kick, including Gomez’s, who impressively scored despite slipping during her effort.

Gomez, 22, fresh from a Matildas call-up, was a standout performer, consistently driving play forward and contributing defensively.

“She’s a very special player with immense talent, and she still has a lot to offer,” said Husband.

The win capped an incredible season for Gomez, who returned brilliantly from a 12-week absence due to an MCL tear.

“I really didn’t think I’d get to this point after such an early injury, but I’ve managed to get back on track,” she said.

Gomez opened the scoring in the 46th minute by capitalising on a missed clearance from Victory’s Claudia Bunge, delicately chipping the ball over goalkeeper Courtney Newbon.

Victory equalised in the 80th minute when Bunge headed home from a corner, pushing the match into extra time.

Controversy ensued when Mariners defender Taylor Ray was not penalised for a clear handball inside the box in the 93rd minute.

“Handball, no doubt about it,” said Victory striker Emily Gielnik. “When the ball hit her hand, I already pictured myself scoring the penalty. It was that clear.”

The A-League Women competition currently does not employ VAR technology.

Despite Melbourne Victory taking 30 shots to Central Coast’s 15, the Mariners held firm to take the final to penalties for the first time in ALW history.

The loss was a bitter blow for Victory, who had also narrowly missed out on the premiership, which was claimed by Melbourne City.

“I’m really proud of how we fought for the win, even though it didn’t go our way,” said Hopkins. “In the end, it’s a lottery at penalties. Congratulations to Central Coast for keeping their nerve.”