FC Elmstead (H) Match Preview

Punjab United vs FC Elmstead, Kent Senior Trophy Semi-Final, The Steve Cook Stadium, Saturday 21st February 2026, 3:00pm Kick-Off

Punjab United stand just one game away from a place in the Kent Senior Trophy final at Maidstone United ass they prepare to take on FC Elmstead at the Steve Cook Stadium. Punjab’s journey has been a tough one as they have battled past the SE Dons, Greenways and Bearsted to earn their spot in the last four. Although Punjab are coming into this fixture following a setback in the SCEFL, their cup form tells a different story as they have made a remarkable run in the FA Vase, building confidence within the squad. The experience of high-pressure knockout football could prove valuable.

Punjab are no strangers to overcoming strong First Division opposition, having already eliminated SE Dons earlier in the competition. With a history making cup run underway and a strong backing from home supporters, belief and hope around the Steve Cook is at an all-time high. A place in the final is within touching distance, now it's all about bringing it home.

The programme for Saturday's game can be seen below.

Punjab United Matchday Programme vs FC Elmstead - Kent Senior Trophy Semi-Final.pdf

Download PDF • 14.46MB

Our Opponents:

FC Elmstead currently stand in the way of Punjab. They currently sit 4th in the SCEFL First Division. Despite entering the match on the back of 2-0 defeat to AFC Greenwich in the Challenge Cup, that loss may only fuel their determination to prove a point. Elmstead possess great attacking quality with Jamie Fearn and Fraser Page both leading the line with 12 goals each.

History:

FC Elmstead was founded on 13 October 1958 as Elmstead Rovers before adopting its current name in 1964. Originally competing in local Sunday leagues, the club built a strong reputation within grassroots football and developed a thriving youth setup. In 2013, Elmstead made the switch to Saturday football and joined the Kent County League, earning consecutive promotions that pushed them up the football pyramid. They stepped into senior football in 2015 and now compete in Division One of the Southern Counties East Football League. A notable milestone came in 2021 when they lifted the London Senior Trophy, highlighting the club’s steady rise and growing ambition.

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 1:30pm, 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.

Adults £8

Concessions £5

U16's Free

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.

Written by Sahib Singh Khera