 That season Melbourne Croatia, now being coached by the returning John Gardiner, led Green Gully on the ladder for the first 19 rounds, being on top of the table for 18 of those weeks.A Round 20 loss to Brunswick Juventus would prove disastrous for the championship hopes of Melbourne Croatia.The club led 2-0 only to have Juventus come back and win 3–2, giving Green Gully top spot.