Former Adelaide United midfielder Fabian Barbiero's fourth-minute strike proved the difference, capping off a memorable NPL finals series for MetroStars, which defeated the premiers from Western Australia, Victoria and New South Wales all away from home on the way to its crowning glory.

MetroStars becomes the competition's second winner after Sydney United 58 claimed the inaugural title last year.

The result earns MetroStars automatic entry into next year's FFA Cup round of 32, while it also sends coach Ivan Karlovic off on the best possible note after he stated that this would be his last match in charge.