Richlands-based Lions Football Club has claimed its third straight Kappa Pro Series title after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time win over Brisbane City FC at Goodwin Park and local supporters will not have to wait long to see the champions back in action.
The Goodwin Park thriller, played in heavy rain on Friday, 1 May, saw Lions come from behind twice before Mitch Hore struck the winning goal in extra time.
Lions have now won the past three Kappa Pro Series titles after Gold Coast Knights claimed the inaugural tournament in 2023.
The win sets up a strong June fixture run, including another meeting with Brisbane City on Saturday, 6 June, followed by two home matches at Luxury Paints Stadium.
Brisbane City took the lead in the first half through Malakai Love-Semira and went into half-time ahead 1-0 after looking the stronger side for stretches of the opening period.
Lions responded early in the second half, with Alex Fiechtner equalising in the 56th minute.
The match appeared to swing back Brisbane City’s way late in regular time, when Ben Hermiston restored City’s lead with less than five minutes remaining.
But Lions refused to go quietly.
Deep into stoppage time, Hore forced the ball home in a goalmouth scramble to make it 2-2, sending the final into extra time.
Brisbane City were reduced to 10 men shortly afterwards.
In the 100th minute, Hore scored again to give Lions a 3-2 lead, with the side holding on to complete the comeback and lift the trophy for the third year in a row.
Lions NPL Men’s head coach Dan Barber said the match was a “brilliant spectacle for Queensland Football” and an “extremely entertaining cup final”.
“The game itself had a bit of everything, goals, chances, rain delays, red cards and extra time,” Barber said.
“Ultimately, the players showcased their quality in big moments throughout the game and their mentality to out-work the opposition.
“I’m delighted for the squad and the staff. Winning the Kappa Pro Series three years in a row is testament to the hard work, dedication and talent of the current and previous squads.”
Barber said the club’s success was built on more than results.
“Good footballers, better people,” he said.
“We have continually demonstrated a belief, willingness and togetherness season after season.”
The June 6 match against Brisbane City will be the third meeting between the two clubs this season, after a 2-2 league draw in March and Lions’ Kappa Pro Series final victory.
The Richlands club is also scheduled to return home to Luxury Paints Stadium in June, with matches against Rochedale Rovers on Sunday, June 21, and Wynnum Wolves on Sunday, June 28.
For local supporters, the fixtures offer a chance to see the cup-winning Lions back in action after one of Queensland football’s most dramatic finals.
