Cam Howieson had always been good enough to play professional football, but had family circumstances keeping him in Auckland.

From the new kids to grand finalists in two short years, Auckland FC's fairytale rise has sparked football fever across New Zealand.

Cam Howieson – with help from Sydney defender Jordan Courtney-Perkins – broke the deadlock on the hour mark in a cagey affair.

A 1-0 win over Sydney FC in Saturday's grand final at a sold-out Go Media Stadium crowned Auckland as the A-League champions for the first time.

Cameron Howieson proved the hero as Auckland FC edged Sydney FC 1-0 Saturday become the first New Zealand team to win Australia's A-League grand final.

Cam Howieson had always been good enough to play professional football, but had family circumstances keeping him in Auckland.