WCFC received a stay of execution after a last-minute plea by Football South Coast directors Nicky Bowman and Martin Littler at the pivotal Football NSW Board meeting last Wednesday.

They convinced the governing body WCFC would have a successful 2010 on and off the field after the club's horror inaugural campaign, which included wooden spoons in first grade and the club championship, four home grounds and a lack of sponsorship.

WCFC were liable for relegation to the second-tier Super League after propping up the club championship table despite winning three junior grand finals.

It is understood Football NSW was swayed by unification under the Football South Coast banner, WCFC's unprecedented junior success, media exposure, securing WIN Stadium as a permanent home and the Women's Premier League league and grand final double, won by the Illawarra Stingrays swayed Football NSW.

WCFC also secured the GPT Group as major sponsor and Young Socceroos assistant Trevor Morgan as head coach for 2010.

Although WCFC's fate is assured, it is not known which other teams will join them in the top flight.

Marconi is believed to be the only club to receive unconditional approval, while the fate of Super League champions Rockdale - who were eligible for promotion - is under wraps.

Football NSW is preparing for a 12 team Premier League next year, but may press ahead with a 10 team competition if any other clubs fail to meet individual criteria set out after last week's board meeting.

Along with WCFC and Marconi, the 2009 Premier League included Sutherland, West Sydney, Sydney Olympic, Sydney United, Sydney Tigers, Blacktown, Bankstown, Bonnyrigg, Manly and Penrith-Nepean.