We have come a long way in five years and to get through to the next round of The FA Cup would be another huge moment in the clubs history, says Punjab United boss Chipie Sian

PUNJAB UNITED manager Jugjit “Chipie” Sian says getting through to the next round of The FA Cup would be another huge moment in the clubs history.

The Gravesend-based outfit made their debut in the competition last August when the BBC Sport cameras screened their 1-0 home defeat to Broadbridge Heath at the same stage of the competition.

However, the boot is on the other foot on Wednesday night when Sian takes his side to Chislehurst to play Stansfeld, who are making their competition debut.

“It was an unbelievable feeling last season playing our first ever FA Cup game and being on BBC Sport live. It was a dream come true and we want to continue that feeling again when we play on Wednesday night,” said Sian, whose side may face AFC Uckfield Town or Little Common in the next round on Saturday week.

“I think it’s going to be a competitive game. We have played some tough games against Stansfeld over the years and I know it’s not going to be an easy game.

“We also know it’s a great opportunity for us to get a win as the next round we would be at home, so it’s all to play for.”

All FA Cup ties will be settled on the day of the game, with no extra-time and ties going straight to penalties if scores are level after 90 minutes and half of the qualifying rounds take place in midweek due to the delayed start to the season.

“We haven’t practiced penalties yet as I know in the team they will be confident in stepping up when counted,” said Sian, who is also the chairman.

“It’s not an issue playing any games during the week and when it’s a FA Cup competition game you would play that any day of the week as it’s massive for everyone involved.

“We have come a long way in five years and to get through to the next round would be another huge moment in the clubs history.”

Sian’s side finished in the bottom four in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division, while Stansfeld, an amateur side, finished in the top seven in the First Division table and like every other club had their promotion dream dashed by a health crisis.

Stansfeld  v  Punjab United
The Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round
Wednesday 2 September 2020
Kick Off 7:45pm
at Foxbury Avenue, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6SD