Saturday’s FA Cup action saw nine Kent sides progress to the third round of qualifying, with the county’s representatives earning £36,875 in prize money.

The televised matchup between Lordswood and Sittingbourne, which saw both sides gain a share of £2,000 in broadcast fees, kicked off the second round. It was Sittingbourne, however, that took the largest share of the winnings, as Henry Sinai’s goal gave the visitors a 1-0 win.

The fate of Cray Wanderers is yet to be decided, after Wingate & Finchley’s late equaliser earned the away side a replay. Cray took a late lead through David Ijaha, but Ogo Obi converted from the spot in the 93^rd minute to deny their progression.

Maidstone also left it fashionably late to secure their place in the third round. The Stones led via Ben Brookes’ first half penalty but were quickly pegged back by Hampton & Richmond’s James Roberts. In the dying embers of the game, Shaquile Coulthirst nodded home the winner from a corner in the 97^th minute, keeping FA Cup drama associated with Maidstone’s name. George Elokobi’s side made a historic run to the fifth round of the cup last season, and he’ll be hoping they can replicate a similar feat this time around.

Isthmian Premier side Chatham Town completed a ‘cupset’ as they overcame National League South Welling United. Freddie Sears grabbed the only goal of the game at Park View Road, with Chatham progressing to the third round for the first time since 2020.

Dartford finally overcame their second round struggles with a comfortable win over Leatherhead. The Darts have been eliminated at this stage for the last two seasons, with losses against Welling United and Beckenham. Their strike partnership of Eddie Dsane and Callum Jones grabbed both goals in a 2-0 win.

Herne Bay overcame the odds as they beat Hendon 3-0. Artem Kuchkov put the hosts ahead in the opening half, and goals from Scott Heard and Michael Salako in the second put the victory out of doubt.

Tonbridge Angels restored order with a 2-1 win over Merstham at Longmead. Trevan Robinson got proceedings underway with an opener in the 9^th minute before Jamie Fielding doubled their lead in the second half. Despite a late scare following Harry Pointing’s goal, the Angels clung on for the win.

Cray Valley PM were the only Kent side to suffer defeat against a side not from the county. A second half brace from Joe Grant gave the visiting Chesham a 2-0 win, knocking the Millers out early after reaching the first round proper last season.

Nearer the coast, Ashford United claimed victory as they beat SCEFL Premier side Corinthian 3-0. Goals in this game came from Mikey Berry, Louis Collins and Gary Lockyer.

Margate managed the biggest scoreline of the Kent clubs in their 4-0 win away to Bognor Regis. Player-manager Ben Greenhalgh’s stunning strike wrapped the game up after a bout of goals in the first half.

Ben Smith’s Ramsgate also ensured their place in the hat. Tushaun Walters’ 75^th minute goal saw no reply, giving the hosts a 1-0 victory over Broadbridge Heath.

Image courtesy of Paul Golding