Erith & Belvedere (H) Match Preview

Punjab United vs Erith & Belvedere, SCEFL Premier Division, The Steve Cook Stadium, Saturday 26th April 2025, 3:00pm Kick-Off

The stage is set for a dramatic finale to the SCEFL Premier Division campaign when Punjab United host Erith & Belvedere in what could be the most important 90 minutes of their season. Punjab United currently sit 5th in the league and are clinging to the final playoff position by a single point from Rusthall and two from Fisher.

For Punjab United, the stakes could not be higher. A win will guarantee their place in the playoffs, something the club has strived for all season long. Anything less and the gap is wide open for Rusthall to leapfrog them, should they win their final match.

Standing in their way is a dangerous Erith & Belvedere side in 7th. Although out of playoff contention themselves, Erith have been playing well and will be looking to end their season on a high. Their principal threat is forward Fred Baker, who has been on fire all season with 9 goals. Punjab's defence will need to be at their absolute best to silence him.

This is more than a match for Punjab United. It's a chance to be part of history, to reward the efforts put in during the season, and to give their fans a moment to remember. A playoff spot isn't just a prize it's a declaration for the club.

Opposition (A Brief History):

Credit: SCEFL Website

Erith & Belvedere FC came into being in 1922 following the reformation of Belvedere & District, which had initially been formed in 1918. They were soon a household name in Kent football, joining the Kent League and going on to play in the FA Amateur Cup final twice, in 1924 and 1938. The years following the war also brought success to the club as they captured the London Senior Cup and dominated the Corinthian League's Memorial Shield.

Erith & Belvedere played in a variety of leagues over the decades, including the Athenian and Southern Leagues, experiencing relegations and promotions. They captured a Kent League title in thrilling style in 2012–13 with a 7–1 win on the final day to earn promotion to the Isthmian League, but were relegated the following season.

The club continued to languish in the late 2010s with managerial upheaval and boardroom turmoil. But under new management and a reversal of fortunes, they won the Southern Counties East Football League (SCEFL) Premier Division title in 2022–23. Their tenure at Step 4 was brief, and they now compete once again in the SCEFL under joint managers Jamie Phipps and Billy Hamlin, who are seeking to restore the club to former glories.

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.

Our sponsors Apollo Taxis are offering a 10% discount for any supporters who are travelling from Gravesend Train Station to the ground. We'd like to thank Apollo Taxis once again for their continued support each season.

The Steve Cook Stadium

Dunkirk Close

Gravesend

Kent

DA12 5ND

Matchday & Ticketing Information:

Tickets for the game can only be purchased on gate and not in advance.

Ticket prices for the game are as follows:

• Adults: £5

• Under 16s: Free

  
  

Card payments are available across the stadium, including on the turnstiles and at any bars and catering facilities.

How to follow the game:

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

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

We hope to see you at The Steve Cook Stadium!

Pride Passion Punjab

Written by Sahib Singh Khera