On a sun-drenched Bank Holiday Monday at Rowley Lane, London Lions made history in front of a passionate home crowd, overcoming Wormley Rovers in a tense and thrilling Spartan South Midlands Premier Division play-off final. After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, the Lions held their nerve to win 4-3 on penalties—securing a first-ever promotion to Step 4 of the FA pyramid in the club’s proud history.

Having finished the regular season in fourth—just one place and one point above today’s opponents—London Lions showed their quality and determination throughout the play-off campaign. After an impressive away semi-final victory at Cockfosters, they stepped up again in the final, backed by an electric Rowley Lane atmosphere.

Wormley Rovers had the game’s first opportunity, but it was the Lions who struck first. A dangerous in-swinging corner from Max Davis caused chaos in the Wormley box. Goalkeeper Carlos Simeon couldn’t deal with the delivery, and as Luke Marshall desperately tried to clear, he only succeeded in heading the ball into the roof of his own net. A dream start for the Lions—1-0.

The visitors responded with pressure of their own, forcing Lions’ ever-reliable keeper Nathan Bloohn into two strong saves from Joshua Asiedu and Reece Mosanya. Eventually, Wormley found a way through, with Asiedu finishing neatly into the bottom corner after a smart turn just outside the box. It was a blow—but one this resilient Lions side absorbed with typical composure.

Before the break, the home side came close to restoring their lead. Max Davis continued to pull the strings in midfield, first sliding in Daniel Creese, whose shot was saved, before firing a thunderous effort just over the bar after strong hold-up play from Max Kyte.

The second half saw both sides battle for control, but chances were few and far between. Wormley had the better of the opportunities late on, but again Bloohn came to the Lions’ rescue with a number of key saves, including a brave block from Erald Desa’s low drive and sharp handling from a Ryan Stevenson curling effort.

As full-time approached, London Lions pushed for a winner. Benji Weinberger’s dangerous cross picked out Louie Basso at the back post, but his header went just over—agonisingly close to snatching victory in the dying moments.

And so it went to penalties. Under pressure, the Lions showed remarkable calm. After both teams converted their first spot-kicks, Bloohn—heroic all afternoon—made the first breakthrough, saving from George Beattie. Weinberger calmly slotted home to make it 2-1. Further conversions followed, making it 3-2.

Then, the nerves took over—both sides missed their next efforts. When Wormley keeper Simeon stepped up and scored, it was down to one final penalty. Enter Jack Mattey. Composed and clinical, he buried the winner with authority—sparking scenes of joy as Rowley Lane erupted.

History made. Job done. Step 4, here we come.

This achievement represents a landmark moment for London Lions—a club built on togetherness, belief, and ambition. Against a strong Wormley side, the Lions showed courage, character, and class. Congratulations to the entire squad, coaching team, and supporters—your club is now a Step 4 team.