Punjab United Triumph in Seven-Goal Thriller to Claim Steve Cook Trophy

Punjab United were crowned winners of the Steve Cook Cup after a tough fought 4-3

victory over Ebbsfleet United.

From the first whistle, Punjab showcased their intent to attack. The first breakthrough

came early in the first half, during the 9th minute when striker Roman Campbell chased

down a loose ball and challenged the Ebbsfleet goalkeeper into a 50/50 duel. Campbell

was able to come out on top, and slotted the ball into the net and give Punjab an early lead, setting the tempo for the game.

Punjab continued to press forward, and in the 24th minute, Campbell was able to double his goal tally and doubling Punjab’s advantage. This time Campbell was able to get onto the end of an amazingly crafted cross from Ethan Okechukwu, meeting the delivery to make it 2-0.

Ebbsfleet struggled to cope with Punjab's gameplay, and went into the second half down

by two goals, and any hope of an early second half resurgence was shot down by

Ethan Okechukwu, who turned from assister to scorer as he was able to pounce on a

defensive lapse in judgement by Ebbsfleet, stealing the ball from the goalkeepers feet and

calmly finishing it, to make it 3-0.

Only a few minutes later in the 51st minute, Ebbsfleet were gifted the opportunity of a

penalty kick, to finally get themselves back into this game. But Punjab goalkeeper Lee

Kidman had different ideas and was able to produce a brilliant moment, and pulled off a

stunning diving save to stop the penalty from going in.

Ebbsfleet were given a lifeline as their No.9 finished from close range and end the chances of Punjab getting a clean sheet.

Punjab's attack continued and so did Roman Campbells form, as in the 61st minute, he was

able to complete his hat-trick. A header from a long throw sent his shot into the top corner, giving him his third goal of the match and sealing his all-important hat-trick.

However, Ebbsfleet began to mount a comeback, scoring two goals in quick succession.

Many Punjab fans were on edge, and the Punjab squad were forced to dig deep defensively

as Ebbsfleet began pushing for an equaliser.

Despite this pressure, Punjab were able to hold their nerve and keep their composure. Via

a showing of resilience and determination, Punjab were able to see out the final moments

and secure themselves the Steve Cook Trophy.

The victory caps off a memorable pre-season day for Punjab United, who were able to bring

home the Steve Cook Trophy in front of a proud 620 supporters.

Written by Sahib Khera