Honours Even As Punjab Make The Trip To The Midlands

Sporting Khalsa 2–2 Punjab United

Written by Harvey Puttick

Following an exciting 4-3 victory over Ebbsfleet United, Punjab United faced a tough away test with a four-hour journey to take on Sporting Khalsa.

The hosts started on the front foot, forcing goalkeeper Owen Bushell into a brilliant double save in the opening minute to keep the scores level. But Punjab quickly found their rhythm and looked the more threatening side in the first 15 minutes, particularly from set pieces. Chris Edwards was delivering pinpoint crosses from dead-ball situations, though the attackers couldn’t quite convert them into goals.

Despite Punjab’s strong start, Khalsa struck first in the 19th minute with a slick passing move that carved open the defence and was calmly finished to make it 1-0.

Punjab didn't let their heads drop. They continued to apply pressure, and in the 28th minute, it paid off. Another inch-perfect delivery from Edwards found the head of Toch Singh, who rose well at the near post to glance the ball past the defender and into the net, bringing the game level at 1–1.

Sporting Khalsa 1-1 Punjab United - Toch Singh (28th Minute)

The momentum remained with Punjab, who began to control possession and push forward. Will Johnson-Cole’s trickery inside the box won a penalty, but Roman Campbell’s effort from the spot was well saved by the Khalsa goalkeeper, who guessed right and got a strong hand to it.

Both teams had chances to take the lead before the break, but the first half ended 1–1.

The second half began with slightly less intensity, as the heat began to take its toll on the players. In the 57th minute, however, Khalsa managed to edge ahead again, finishing off a good attacking move to make it 2–1.

Punjab responded once more with determination, continuing to test the Khalsa defense, especially from set pieces. In the 66th minute, another dangerous delivery found Alfie Moynes at the back post. The ball dropped kindly, and Moynes made no mistake, smashing his effort towards the post to bring Punjab level again at 2–2.

Sporting Khalsa 2-2 Punjab United - Alfie Moynes (66th Minute)

The final stages of the match became a frantic, end-to-end affair as both sides pushed for a winner. Despite some promising openings, neither team was able to find the breakthrough, and the match ended honours even.

It was another spirited performance from Punjab United, who showed resilience and attacking threat throughout.

Next up: A return home tomorrow night against Bridon Ropes, as the squad looks to continue building momentum ahead of a busy season.