Jason Davkovski has begun his tenure as head coach of Cringila Lions with a vital victory, ending the club's three-game losing streak. The Lions defeated Berkeley Sports 2-1 on Saturday, improving their record to 2-4 in the Premier League 1 season. The win came after the club and former coach Igor Cankulovski mutually parted ways last week.
Cankulovski, a club legend who served Cringila as a player, coach and volunteer for over 20 years, was replaced following a poor start to the 2026 campaign. The Lions had missed finals football last season and began this year with a 1-4 record, despite winning the pre-season Shellharbour FC Cup. The club said in a statement that the decision was not taken lightly but was necessary to achieve its goals.
Davkovski, who previously coached at Corrimal Rangers and Albion Park White Eagles, has been appointed for the remainder of the season. He expressed confidence in the squad, saying, 'I've inherited a good team. I will do everything I can to get them up the ladder.' He also called on supporters to keep backing the team, noting the season is still young.
The new coach highlighted the importance of striker Peter Simonoski staying fit and firing, while confirming that Keegan Matias will miss the rest of the season after dislocating his shoulder in the win over Berkeley. 'He is a big loss. We will miss him,' Davkovski said.
Next up for Cringila is a daunting away clash against unbeaten Helensburgh Thistle, who sit second on the ladder with four wins and two draws. Davkovski acknowledged the challenge, saying, 'It's going to be a tough task. They counter-attack very quickly.' He added that the Lions are focused on becoming the first team to beat Helensburgh this season.
