MATCH REPORT | Faversham Strike Force 2-3 Punjab United

Written by Sahib Khera

Punjab United travelled to The Primcura Healthcare Stadium to face Faversham Strike Force in a crucial league encounter, with both sides desperate for points.

Punjab started the match brightly, kicking off with a quick forward pass from Steve Ratcliff that immediately set the tone. After an early spell of throw-ins, the ball was worked down the left flank where Hudson Scudder beat his man and delivered an early ball into the Faversham penalty area, only to be denied by last-ditch defending. It was an early warning of Punjab’s attacking intent.

A few minutes later, another long throw found its way into the box, delivered by Chris Edwards. Wayne Bushell rose highest to meet it, registering Punjab’s first shot on target, but his header was comfortably gathered by the goalkeeper. Despite the missed opportunity, Punjab continued to apply pressure.

Scudder was heavily involved in the early stages, driving inside and forcing a blocked effort from range before collecting the loose ball and firing again from inside the box. Punjab were firmly in control and continued to knock on the door.

Punjab came close again from a set-piece when Edwards swung a corner perfectly onto the head of Wayne Bushell. His contact was excellent and looked destined for the net, but a vital defensive intervention from Faversham kept the scores level.

At the other end, Owen Bushell produced a standout moment in goal for Punjab, making a superb low save at full stretch to deny Faversham and preserve the clean sheet during the first half.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 34th minute. Chris Edwards picked up the ball and produced a superb solo run, slicing through the Faversham defence before firing a low, driven shot past the goalkeeper to give Punjab a deserved 1–0 lead.

Punjab continued to push forward until the interval and went into the break in control of the match. Standout performances in the first half came from Hudson Scudder and Chris Edwards in attack, while Kyden Lewin-Thomas and Steve Ratcliff impressed defensively.

The second half began with Faversham Strike Force on the front foot, dominating possession and testing Punjab with a series of shots. Punjab’s defence held firm initially, but Faversham eventually found an equaliser in the 55th minute following a crowded corner situation, bringing the game back level.

Rather than dropping their heads, Punjab responded positively. They regained momentum through strong midfield play, led by Jack Hopkins, and began to assert themselves once again.

In the 63rd minute, Punjab retook the lead. The ball was worked down the left side before Ratcliff squared it into the box. The initial effort was parried, but only as far as Jordan Campbell, who lifted the ball back into danger. Will Johnson Cole met it with a well-timed header, burying it past the goalkeeper to make it 2–1.

Punjab continued to press, launching counter-attacks and making effective use of the wings. However, Faversham refused to go quietly and were awarded a penalty in the 71st minute following a late challenge. Owen Bushell guessed correctly, but the effort just slipped underneath him, levelling the score once again.

Despite the setback, Punjab pushed on with relentless intensity. Hudson Scudder continued to cause problems, showing immense stamina as he repeatedly cut inside and tested the goalkeeper from distance.

In the closing stages, Faversham attempted to slow the game down, but Punjab remained composed, winning fouls and controlling possession. Their persistence paid off in dramatic fashion in the 91st minute. A long throw from Chris Edwards found Wayne Bushell, who executed a perfectly controlled volley and fired it into the back of the net, sending the away supporters into celebration.

Moments later, the final whistle blew, confirming a thrilling 3–2 victory for Punjab United and a hard-earned three points.

Overall, it was an entertaining and fiercely contested match, with both sides giving everything. Punjab United showed resilience, stamina and a true warrior mentality, overcoming setbacks to secure a deserved victory on the road.