The hallowed “Road to Wembley,” a dream for countless football clubs across England, commenced its earliest stage last Saturday with the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round, delivering a blend of elation and early exits for various Kent sides. This initial hurdle in the world’s oldest cup competition saw local teams battle fiercely, setting the tone for what promises to be another thrilling season of cup football.

Among the standout performers were FA Vase winners Whitstable Town, who delivered a commanding display away at Lingfield, securing a resounding 7-2 victory. The emphatic win was sealed by a late hat-trick from substitute Dean Grant, showcasing their attacking prowess and signaling their intent on this ambitious journey in the FA Cup.

Conversely, Faversham Strike Force’s inaugural foray into the prestigious competition ended in disappointment. Playing their first home game at The Belmont, they succumbed to a 4-0 defeat against Chislehurst Glebe, an outcome that quickly curtailed their “Road to Wembley” aspirations right at the first hurdle of the Extra Preliminary Round.

The drama continued with Phoenix and Jacob Breckon’s early penalty for the opposition after just 14 minutes, followed by Nathan Hogan’s equaliser for the Phoenix side. Their initial encounter concluded in a 1-1 draw, necessitating a midweek replay to determine which team would advance in the FA Cup.

Further progress was secured by the Ites, who overcame an early deficit. Skipper Danny Leonard swiftly canceled out Joshua Bassey’s fourth-minute opener, and a decisive brace from Eitel Mourni Goueth, scored on either side of half-time, ensured their progression in the FA Cup. This demonstrated resilience and effective goal-scoring in key moments.

However, the journey concluded prematurely for several other Kent football teams. Bearsted suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Hackney Wick, despite Sam Flisher initially putting them ahead. Similarly, Larkfield & New Hythe exited after a 3-0 loss at home to Epsom & Ewell, while Sutton Athletic’s hopes were dashed with a narrow 1-0 defeat against Seaford.

Another thrilling fixture saw Tunbridge Wells held to a 1-1 draw at home by Holmesdale, leading to an anticipated midweek replay. Lucas Murrain put Wells in front, but Malachi Hudson’s penalty five minutes before the break ensured the teams would have to face off again to decide who would continue their pursuit in the FA Cup.

Sevenoaks enjoyed a triumphant start to their campaign, clinching a solid 3-1 victory away at Athletic Newham. Second-half goals from Tom Hanfrey, who netted twice, and Warren Mfula proved decisive, ensuring Sevenoaks began their season on a high note and advanced confidently in the Extra Preliminary Round of the FA Cup.