Hoppers Crossing has missed out on a fairytale finish to the Football Federation Victoria men’s State League 4 season.
The Reds took all before them in the west group, waltzing to the title and earning automatic promotion.
But they lost to Croydon City Arrows 4-2 at Jubilee Park in the SL4 final on Saturday.
A goal from the spot from Reds leader Kevin Smart had scores locked at 1-1 at half-time, but Steven Smart’s goal five minutes from time proved a mere consolation.
The Arrows scored three second-half goals to claim the title.
