Benfleet FC (A) Match Preview

Benfleet FC vs Punjab United, Isuzu FA Vase Fourth Round, Woodside Stadium, Saturday 17th January 2026, 3:00PM KO

Saturday will be the biggest game in our 23 year history with Punjab being one of three teams waving the SCEFL flag, including Fisher and Whitstable Town. With being only four wins away from securing a place at Wembley, Punjab will look to hopefully progress into the fifth round as they take on Essex Senior League side, Benfleet FC.

Since their last Isuzu FA Vase match against Burnham FC, they have picked up only one win in their last four but are also unbeaten with picking up three draws along the way. Last Saturday saw Punjab play their first match of 2026 as despite being 3-1 with 7 minutes to go, they were unable to hold on and dropped two vital points in their playoff push.

Punjab's run so far in the competition looks like this...

Oakwood FC 0-2 Punjab United - Isuzu FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round

Punjab United 3-1 Wick FC - Isuzu FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round

Punjab United 1-0 Wembley FC - Isuzu FA Vase 1st Round

Punjab United 2-1 Tadley Calleva FC - Isuzu FA Vase 2nd Round

Burnham FC 1-2 Punjab United - Isuzu FA Vase 3rd Round

Benfleet's run so far in the competition looks like this...

Barking FC 0-0 (6-7) Benfleet FC - Isuzu FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round

Benfleet FC 5-2 West Essex Sports - Isuzu FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round

Benfleet FC 2-0 Great Wakering Rovers - Isuzu FA Vase 1st Round

Walsham Le Willows 1-2 Benfleet FC - Isuzu FA Vase 2nd Round

Dereham Town 0-2 Benfleet FC - Isuzu FA Vase 3rd Round

This is the first time that Punjab has played Benfleet FC so let's dive a bit into who they are...

Our Opponents:

Benfleet FC currently compete in the Essex Senior league which is a Step 5 Division. Under manager Lee Scott, Benfleet are known for an organised and disciplined playing style, focusing on a strong defensive structure while still playing direct.

Under this tactic, Benfleet has seen much success as they currently sit in 10th place in

the Essex Senior League, which is higher than many Benfleet fans would have expected considering they had just been recently promoted.

Benfleet is also home to many great players including Max Jobson who is leading the

goalscoring sheet for the side with 10 goals. He will be one Punjab will have to look out

for.

History:

Founded in 1922, Benfleet Football Club is a long-established non-league club based in Essex, with a history deeply rooted in the local community. Since its formation, the club has competed across a range of Essex and regional leagues, establishing itself as a resilient presence within the non-league pyramid.

Over the decades, Benfleet FC has experienced the full spectrum of grassroots football, including periods of progression, consolidation, and rebuilding. The club has consistently placed an emphasis on developing local talent and representing the town with pride, values that have remained central to its identity throughout its history.

Benfleet have also enjoyed notable moments in cup competitions, where strong performances and memorable ties have helped shape the club’s character and strengthen its connection with supporters. These runs have provided opportunities to test themselves against higher-ranked opposition and celebrate the unique spirit of non-league football.

Off the pitch, Benfleet FC has continued to serve as a community-focused club, supported by dedicated volunteers and local backing. Through changing football landscapes and challenges, the club has endured, maintaining its traditions while looking toward a sustainable future as an important part of Essex non-league football.

Getting There & Ticket Prices:

The nearest train station to Benfleet FC is Benfleet Station. From there it takes 12 minutes by driving to get to the ground.

Woodside Park

Benfleet

Essex

SS7 4PA

Adults £7

Concessions £5

U18's £2

How to follow the game:

There will be live updates during the game on Punjab's’ Twitter / X page.

A post-match interview with the gaffer will also be posted on our YouTube channel and other social media platforms after the game.

This match is a vital one for Punjab to win as they look to challenge their deepest ever

run into the FA Vase, a win here would also deliver great momentum for the playoff

push in the SCEFL.

Written by Sahib Singh Khera