The 22-year-old Riverside Olympic product scored a superb goal and was named player of the grand final in a career-defining performance as City beat league powerhouse Sydney 3-1.

The former Riverside Primary and High School student, who left home at the age of 14 to pursue his sporting dream, said the achievement made all the sacrifices worthwhile.

Interviewed by Archie Thompson after the match, Atkinson said: "My old club Riverside had a bit of a function on for this so they're supporting me back home and my Mum finally made it over to watch me so that's great.

"It's the proudest moment of my career and for my family too I'm sure.

"When I got my (hamstring) injury I thought 'season done' but little things kept going my way, I'm here today and I'm speechless.

"Everything happens for a reason but it's a strange world we live in. I could have been over at Perth but I'm so thankful I stayed here. I've been here for nearly six years, I've seen the ups and downs of this club and we finally did it."

Atkinson, who was in the City team beaten 1-0 after extra-time by the same opponent in last year's decider, scored midway through the first half, less than two minutes after Kosta Barbarouses had given Sydney the lead at AAMI Stadium.

"When this goes in there's a roar in Launceston you'd think the Spirit of Tasmania had run aground," bellowed Sky commentator Andy Harper.

After Sydney's Luke Brattan was sent off, Atkinson helped set up City's second, scored from the penalty spot by captain Scott Jamieson.

The home side dominated the second half but had to wait until the third minute of stoppage time when Scott Galloway's goal wrapped up the victory.

One of just a handful of Tasmanians to grace the national soccer competition, Launceston-born Atkinson will find out on Tuesday if he is also heading to the Olympics.

Coach Graham Arnold will announce the Olyroos squad, made up predominantly of under-23 players.