1981 Charity Shield (NSL)

The 1981 Charity Shield was the first Charity Shield (NSL), a soccer match played between the winners of the previous season's National Soccer League champion and NSL Cup winner. It took place at Redfern Oval on 30 January 1981, between Sydney City and Marconi Fairfield. Marconi Fairfield won 3–1 after extra time, winning the first Charity Shield.

Background
Sydney City qualified for the 1981 Charity Shield as champions of the 1980 National Soccer League. Marconi Fairfield qualified for the 1981 Charity Shield as 1980 NSL Cup winners.

Summary
Sydney City scored first through John Kosmina in his debut match with the club. Towards the dying seconds of the 90 minutes, Jimmy Cant headed into his own goal for Marconi Fairield to equalize and send the game to extra time. Brazilian forward Nelio Borges was sent off in extra time, with Sydney City to struggle with ten men. Peter Sharne scored two further goals to win the match for Marconi Fairfield.