Melbourne Storm last night defeated the Parramatta Eels to claim the NRL premiership and seal Victoria’s stake as Australia’s leading sports city.

In a dominating year, Melbourne has claimed just about every major sporting title in 2009, showing the nation that they are the ‘real’ sporting capital.

So far this year the state has claimed the AFL premiership with Geelong, the soccer A- League title with the Melbourne Victory, the current national basketball championship through the now defunct South Dragons, and the state Netball competition thanks to the Melbourne Vixens.

In addition, Victoria has triumphed in Australia’s most prestigious cricket competition – the Sheffield Shield.

Basically, Victoria has claimed every single major sporting title on offer in the country.

This begs the question why the state has not been given a team in the international Rugby Union competition, the Super 14.

In 2005, the league expanded from 12 to 14 sides, and instead of Melbourne being given a spot, Perth was the lucky recipient.

Many people have spoken out about what it is that has made the city so successful in the sporting world.

Experts believe it may have something to do with the colder weather, and the motivation to keep warm through physical activity.

Some put it down to the great sporting arenas and facilities the state possesses.

Others, however, believe the answer is simple: Victoria is just better.

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION:

What is the reason behind Victoria’s current purple patch?

Should Melbourne be given a side in the Super 14s Competition?

What is Australia’s second best sporting city?