Newcastle Jets win Australia Cup first trophy since 2008

In a dramatic Australia Cup final, the Newcastle Jets secured their first trophy since the 2007-08 championship by defeating Heidelberg United in extra time, with late goals from substitutes Oscar Fryer and Ben Gibson. The victory not only awarded Newcastle a $50,000 prize but also qualified them for the 2026-27 AFC Champions League Two competition. Heidelberg United, a semi-professional team known as the Burgers, had taken an early lead through Ryan Lethlean and had been competing impressively against A-League clubs, reflecting their significant progress and resilience despite players juggling full-time jobs alongside football. Both teams finished the match with ten men after late send-offs, highlighting the intensity of the contest. Heidelberg's players, including an Uber driver and a disability support worker, embody the spirit of part-time athletes challenging professional teams, underlining a compelling underdog narrative. The match was held at Lakeside Stadium with a strong fan presence, underscoring the growing excitement and support for the competition and its participants.