The Opposing View – Punjab Utd vs Erith & Belvedere, Kent Senior Trophy Semi-Final, 11 February 2023 
with Jindi Banwait, Punjab Utd First Team Coach and Club Secretary.

Nik: Could you give us a summary of Punjab's season so far?

Jindi: Very up and down, and from a league position, disappointing.

The cup performances show how well we play as a unit. We should be higher up in the league table, but inconsistency is costing us points. An unbeaten start in January, with credible draws against Whitstable and Deal, shows the quality we possess. We need to bring the cup form into these matches and turn the draws into wins.

Nik: How excited is everyone at Punjab for the semi-final?

Jindi: This is a huge opportunity for the club, community, and its members. We are expecting a bumper crowd to get behind us.

With the recent game against Hollands & Blair (Punjab Utd 3-2 H&B), I expect a passionate performance. We are playing some positive football and the squad is enjoying the run. This is a good place to be for us all to be, and shows that hard work off the pitch can bring success on it!

Nik: What are your thoughts on the last game against Erith & Belvedere?

(Erith & Belvedere 6-2 Punjab Utd)

Jindi: The last game proves how focus and concentration matters, anything loose is punished. The score line didn't reflect our performance at all.

1st Half - I think Punjab Utd matched Erith & Belvedere, we were fast and very offensive. The game was open, and we exploited the wide areas well. We just didn't take our chances in front of goal.

2nd half - We were chasing and showed some naivety, however that fixture was in September, and the squad has evolved and become much stronger since!

Nik: What are your prediction and thoughts for Saturday’s cup match against us?

Jindi: Tough prediction this, but being at home gives Punjab the advantage. I'm going for a home win. I believe the score will be tight with a goal in it. I’m going Punjab Utd 2-1 Erith & Belvedere

Nik: What are your hopes for the rest of Punjab's season?

Jindi: If we can make two finals, including the SCEFL Challenge Cup, bring some silverware home, and a top half finish, it will be progress. Certainly, more than we deserve for a hard, transitional season.

Nik: Thanks for your time Jindi and enjoy the match!