With Joe Palatsides's side top of the table, but ahead of Perth Glory only by goal difference going into the final day of the season, there were plenty of permutations prior to kick-off - especially considering Perth's opponent on the final day was third-placed Brisbane Roar, which, with 32 points, was also in the running for the title.
A win for Melbourne would almost certainly secure the title, but in the event of a draw, City's destiny was in the hands of Glory and Roar, with either side able to snatch the championship with a win - although in Brisbane's case it would have to be by a margin of two goals.
The 2-2 draw with the Jets meant Melbourne City was forced to await the outcome of Perth's match with Brisbane, but despite Perth scoring first, Roar overturned the one goal deficit, completing a come from behind 2-1 win; the one goal margin the only result which suited Melbourne City in the circumstances.
City commenced its match in blistering fashion, scoring the opener in the second minute through Stefan Zinni.
But the Jets hit back on the counter attack, as Bradey Crowley delivered a powerful cut back across the penalty area, forcing Jonantan Germano to bundle his attempted clearance into his own net.
Germano would redeem himself, restoring City's lead in the 52nd minute, but with two minutes of regulation play remaining, the Jets equalised to force a 2-2 draw.
The late blow was compounded by the news that Perth Glory was 1-0 up in the opening stages of its encounter with Brisbane.
But with Brisbane’s comeback win, Melbourne City secured the title via superior 'goals for' - with both the points and goal difference on the league table equal with Roar.
