Ashford United (H) Match Preview

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Punjab United vs Ashford United, Isthmian South East Division, The Steve Cook Stadium, Saturday 14th November 2026, 2:00pm Kick-Off

Punjab have come off two draws in their last two away matches since the 2-1 win against Herne Bay at home. A 2-2 draw against play-off side South Park Reigate was a very good point for the Gravesend-based side with both goals coming from winger Emmanuel Oluwasemo. Unfortunately, a 92nd minute equaliser meant that Punjab just left with a point after going 2-1 up in the 59th minute. On Tuesday goals were limited with both Whitstable and Punjab unable to break the deadlock. However another draw against top of the table means that going into tomorrow's game, Punjab sit 11th in the table and with a win against Ashford United, they could move into the top half of the table.

This Saturday they are back at The Steve Cook Stadium as they take on Ashford United who are currently sitting 6th with 4 points separating both teams. A win would see Punjab move into the top 10 and a win for Ashford would cement their place in the playoffs.

The programme for this afternoon's game can be seen below:

Matchday Sponsor:

GamFam is a UK charity that provides free support, education, and awareness around gambling-related harm.

We work with individuals affected by their own gambling, as well as family members, friends, and communities impacted by someone else's gambling.

Our services include:

Group support programmes. (We run over 20 peer support meetings per week.)

Workshops and awareness sessions - for communities, schools, sports clubs, and workplaces.

Lived-experience peer support and recovery guidance.

Resources and tools that help people understand gambling harm, build resilience, and make positive changes.

Advocacy and community engagement to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention.

At GamFam, our aim is to provide hope, support, and practical pathways to recovery for anyone affected by gambling harm.

If you, or a friend or family member is struggling with gambling - please feel free to reach to GamFam.

GamFam are here to support & help. We

You Are Not Alone.

www.gamfam.org.uk

Our Opponents:

Ashford United currently sit 6th in the Isthmian South East Division and play their games at The Green Box Stadium. In the 2025/26 season, Ashford finished 9th in Step 4 and will be looking to improve on last year. They ended up on 67 points with 20 wins, 7 draws and 15 defeats. They are currently unbeaten in their last 3 games with 2 wins and a draw.

History:

Ashford United is a club built on resilience, tradition and a strong connection to its local community. Although the modern club was reformed in 2011, the roots of football in Ashford date back to 1891, with Ashford Town FC later established in 1930. The club became a familiar name in Kent football, spending many years competing in the

Southern League before moving to the Homelands Stadium in 1989. Their famous

nickname, the “Nuts and Bolts”, reflects Ashford’s railway heritage and the locomotive works that once played a major role in the town’s economy.

Following financial difficulties, Ashford Town was wound up in 2010, but the

determination of supporters ensured football would continue, with Ashford United

reforming in 2011. Beginning in the Kent Invicta League, the club steadily climbed back through the non-league pyramid. Their progress was highlighted during the 2016–17 season when they won the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division, scoring over 100 goals and securing promotion to the Isthmian League. Since then,

Ashford have established themselves as a competitive side, with the development of their artificial pitch helping to strengthen the club's community and youth football

programmes.

Throughout their history, Ashford have been represented by several notable players. Dave Arter became one of the club's most prolific goalscorers with 197 goals, while John Young scored an impressive 172 goals during the 1970s and 1980s. Peter McRobert holds the remarkable appearance record of 765 matches, demonstrating incredible

loyalty to the club. Former England manager Roy Hodgson also represented Ashford Town during his playing career. More recently, captain Gary Lockyer made national headlines during the 2024–25 season by winning the Emirates FA Cup Golden Ball after scoring 10 goals in the competition, receiving recognition at Wembley Stadium.

The 2025–26 campaign brought significant changes, particularly following the

departure of manager Lloyd Hume in December. Craig Stone was appointed as

permanent first-team manager, bringing fresh ideas and a clear vision for the club's future. His arrival marked the beginning of a new chapter, with the squad adapting to his approach while experienced players continued to provide leadership. Former

professional Barry Fuller also remained an important figure behind the scenes as Head of Football Development, helping to support the club's long-term ambitions.

Looking ahead to the 2026–27 season, Ashford United have focused on stability and maintaining continuity within the squad. Craig Stone successfully secured the

commitment of the players who finished the previous campaign, providing a strong foundation for the challenges ahead. With a loyal fanbase, a proud footballing history and renewed ambition, the Nuts and Bolts will be determined to continue their progress and establish themselves as a competitive force in non-league football.

Getting There:

The nearest train station to Punjab United is Gravesend. You can then either get the bus which takes 30 minutes or get a taxi from the station which takes 11 minutes.

The Steve Cook Stadium

Dunkirk Close

Gravesend

Kent

DA12 5ND

Extra Information:

The Steve Cook Stadium will be opening at 12:30pm, with many products on offer from simple soft drinks to beers. The Punjab Cafe will also be open and offer food and drink.

In terms of disabled parking, it is crucial that anybody who requires it, contacts the Punjab team via email (punjabutdfc@gmail.com). Parking may be busy and can fill quickly, if you do decide to park around residential areas, please be mindful and respectful of residents.