They were well on top early and it took Sydney FC a little bit to claw their way into the game - which they did - and the visitors got the goal to go ahead.

But City didn't take the foot off the pedal and replied quickly. But once Luke Brattan's send off occurred, it was always going to be an uphill battle for the Sky Blues. And then copping a penalty on the stroke of half time was the sucker-punch.

I think if they could have gone in at 1-1 and re-grouped, and then held out City for as long as possible before sending the game into extra time - that was probably the plan. But the red card and the penalty in the first half really determined the outcome in the end.

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Having said that, City were a lot better on the day. City have been the best team all year and deservedly won the title double.

But it's not doom and gloom for the Sky Blues. Sydney FC have had a great few years and I think that will continue. They've got a strong culture at the club and a good core of players. I'm sure, like every team, there will be some new players coming in and they will look to strengthen the squad.

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