Auckland were often intent on a slow, measured build up while Wellington were eager to release the pace of Henry Fa-arodo and Joel Stevens on the counter attack. The clash of styles created a scrappy match with both sides often let down by the final delivery around the box. Portuguese import Joao Moreira had some nice touches for Auckland, while Ryan de Vries was a constant threat with his quick feet.
Auckland should have secured the win in the second half but Tade and De Vries contrived to miss three one-on-ones as Wellington pushed numbers forward in search of the equaliser.
Influential Welsh midfielder Chris Bale had a strong game for Auckland and produced an impressive display of first-half passing, delivering numerous raking 60-yard passes with pin-point precision that helped launch attacks.
Bale was flanked by a composed defending duo of Vicelich and Angel Berlanga and Auckland rarely looked threatened but did cough up a glorious last minute chance for Wellington to equalise.
Wellington substitute Roy Kayara broke down the left hand side and expertly pulled the ball back to the penalty spot for James Musa whose shot at goal was deflected just inches wide by Takuya Iwata. Auckland goalkeeper Tamati Williams celebrated the 91st minute block by running to the Japanese left back and lifting him up in an ecstatic bear-hug embrace.
Vicelich said his team was thrilled with winning the elusive championship.
"It's been a long while since we won this title," said Vicelich. "We've won a few minor premierships and a few O-Leagues along the way which has been awesome, but it's so great to get the title back in the bag."
Auckland will now take a week off before returning to camp to prepare for the 2014 OFC Champions League, which starts in Fiji next month.
