Australia Cup bound: Lions first Lakoseljac Cup Win

Kingborough Lions United FC will take its place on the national stage after claiming the club’s first-ever Lakoseljac Cup win, securing Tasmania’s berth in the 2026 Australia Cup Round of 32.

In a final that will be remembered for years to come, the Lions produced a remarkable comeback against Devonport City, equalising with the final kick of normal time before holding their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout to lift the state’s premier knockout trophy for the first time in club history.

The victory represents far more than silverware.

It earns Kingborough the right to represent Tasmania in the Australia Cup Round of 32, where the club will join the nation’s best, including all ten A-League Men clubs. For a community football club from southern Tasmania, it is an extraordinary opportunity to showcase not only the team, but the people, culture and community that have helped build the club into what it is today.

The path to the title was anything but easy.

The Lions had already survived one penalty shootout in the semi-final against South Hobart, demonstrating the resilience and belief that has become a hallmark of this group. The final demanded the same courage. Faced with defeat deep into stoppage time, Kingborough refused to surrender, finding a dramatic late equaliser before delivering under pressure from the penalty spot.

While the players and coaching staff deservedly take centre stage, this achievement belongs to the entire club.

It belongs to the volunteers who give countless hours behind the scenes. It belongs to the junior players who wear the Lions colours each weekend. It belongs to the coaches, team managers, sponsors, supporters and families who have helped create a club capable of competing on the biggest stages.

This milestone also reflects the significant progress the club has made both on and off the field.

In recent years, Kingborough Lions United has continued to invest in facilities, expand participation opportunities, strengthen its development pathways and grow its presence within the local community. The Australia Cup provides a unique opportunity to celebrate that journey while showcasing what can be achieved when a football club remains committed to both high performance and community values.

The draw for the Australia Cup Round of 32 is expected to be confirmed by Football Australia in the coming weeks. Once details are announced, the club will share information about fixtures, travel opportunities and ways for supporters to get behind the team as it embarks on the next chapter of this remarkable journey.

For now, however, the focus is simple.

The Lions are Lakoseljac Cup Champions.

Tasmania’s representative on the national stage.

And for the first time in club history, Kingborough Lions United FC is Australia Cup bound.