I suppose the reason I feel so gutted is that, with Foley FC coming in next year, this might have been the last time for the Nix to ever get any silverware. And even if we can get by either Melbourne team - both of whom have serious final experience, and let's face it we get the yips playing in Melbourne - I don't think we can take the Salties in the GF (which would be away) considering we couldn't take them in the regular season.
Cheer up Doloras, there is no reason we should expect Auckland FC to challenge us for the silverware next season. Corica was not exactly winning trophies last year at Sydney FC, despite their resources.
The budget (the team we retain) next season is more of a risk to our ambitions than "Foley FC". If anything, we should look at the example of Mariners doing it all, and then some, on a relatively small budget comparing to the more blingy teams. A good coach and a good development scheme seem to be working for them, and show promise for us.